Quality Management: Development of a Framework for a Statistical Agency

Over the last 20 years there has been an increasing focus on quality management (QM) as a distinct and necessary element of any competitive business organization. Although quality has always been a concern of national statistical agencies, quality improvements within such organizations have been achieved through a variety of different independent initiatives rather than through concerted effort under the umbrella of a formal “QM program.” This article addresses the application of QM to a national statistical agency. The essential elements of QM are reviewed from the perspective of a statistical agency. Ongoing quality initiatives at Statistics Canada and at other statistical agencies are described. The article concludes by identifying some of the major considerations in developing a QM strategy for Statistics Canada.