The business of statistics

This Case Study examines the internal environment of a large, public sector organisation - the Australian Bureau of Statistics. The ABS has a strong commitment to the provision of a high quality service to a diverse client base including the schools education sector. Many business processes and systems have applicability to its operation. As a result of reading this Case Study, the student should be able to:

• Understand the nature of large-scale public sector organisations
• Compare the application of business processes and systems in public and private sector organisations  
• Explain processes and systems used to manage a large organisation that seeks to be effective.

Introduction

The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) is well known for its collection and compilation of statistical data that is used by governments, business, the education sector and the wider community.

The fundamentals

The Australian Bureau of Statistics is Australia's national statistical agency.

Meeting client needs

The basic element of the business of the ABS is to have statistical information and analysis to meet the needs of a diverse client base.

Technology-based communication

Innovative technology is integral to the services of the ABS.

The ABS and its people

The ability of the ABS to deliver on its mission is not just dependent on product/service development or organisational processes such as the IT environment; it has a great deal to do with its people.

Conclusion

The Australian Bureau of Statistics is a dynamic and changing organisation.