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Government Analysis Function Career Framework - HTML version

Updated 22 December 2021

1. What is the Government Analysis Function Career Framework?

Career frameworks set out the range of careers available in government. They define the skills and experience needed for typical roles across government, enabling people to deliver in their complex and challenging roles.

The Government Analysis Function (AF) Career Framework describes typical analytical roles which exist across government. It also includes the main skills required to perform each role at varied skill levels.

This framework has been developed in collaboration with all of the analytical professions and aligns with profession specific frameworks which showcase the technical knowledge and experience required to be a member of a profession within each role.

Where roles cross over in to more than one framework, you will see alignment and consistency between role profiles.

The framework signposts relevant opportunities for learning and development to support analysts working anywhere in government.

2. Who is the Career Framework for?

Designed by analysts for analysts and aspiring analysts, this Career Framework supports individuals to make career choices with confidence; clear about the expectations of each role.

Providing more information on typical analytical roles available and the skills and experience required for them. This framework can be used by individuals to plan their career journey. It can be used by managers to support career conversations and it can be used to showcase the depth and breadth of analytical roles across government, encouraging people to consider a career in analysis.

3. How to use the Career Framework

The Career Framework will help you explore the variety of roles across the Analysis Function.

The Role Profiles pull together general principles for departments to follow. The skills and levels suggested are indicative and can vary depending on scope, department, context of the role and be tailored to each as appropriate.

The Framework can be used to help plan career development highlighting skills needed for typical roles across the Analysis Function. Detailing entry routes and referencing common skills across all roles as well as leadership behaviours to support development into Senior Civil Service (SCS) roles.

This Framework can support you to plan and manage your own career, helping you plan your learning journey to support your career aspirations. It will help you take control of and steer your development conversations more effectively, so they reflect your priorities and needs.

4. Personal development

To support your development, there are a variety of tools available across the Analysis Function. Take a look at the Analysis Function Learning Curriculum where you can explore the opportunities available to you.

Development can be found via a variety of methods. Research consistently demonstrates that the most effective learning happens through stretching and challenging assignments and learning on the job. The 70:20:10 model is a philosophy and approach to learning. It consists of:

• 70% on-the-job learning
• 20% of learning through other people and
• 10% through formal training

Please email analysis.function@ons.gov.uk for more information.

To support your development, there are a variety of tools available across the Analysis Function:

• formal central accelerated development schemes
• formal departmental or professional accelerated development schemes
• leadership qualifications
• loans
• secondments
• time limited projects
• informal or formal mentoring to build a relationship which a mentor gives support and advice to a mentee to help them in achieving their aims in a one-to-one partnership
• informal or formal coaching with a coach who will work closely with an individual to determine where they would like their career to go and to develop a plan to achieve those goals
• sponsorship – here a senior civil servant is an advocate for a person with high potential to help them achieve that potential
• ‘lean in circles’ – small groups of people who support each other

5. Developing my core skills

Here are some suggested learning opportunities to support your development of the core skills outlined within the framework. You can follow the links to access the learning, or contact the Analysis Function Learning Team directly for more information on how to enrol onto the face to face workshops.

Some learning is hosted on the new Learning Platform for Government. This is indicated by using (LPG). Alternatively, some learning is still hosted on Civil Service Learning. This is indicated by using (CSL). If your department does not have access to the LPG or CSL, please contact us for guidance on how to access this learning.

For further learning opportunities, the Analysis Function Central Team have created a learning and development brochure which showcases our recommended learning packages. Please email analysis.function@ons.gov.uk for more information.

5.1 Data visualisation

Aimed at analysts or non-analysts who do not belong to a badged analytical profession, or those looking to gain a basic understanding of data visualisation. There are a number of data visualisation courses available.

ONS Data Visualisation Resource Guidance for creating charts and tables and best practice for using colour in your work.

Introduction to Data Visualisation workshop Aimed at analysts who already have in-depth knowledge of graphing techniques, this course provides an overview of good practice in the design and presentation of tables, graphs and maps and the use of colour.

Designing effective tables and graphs guidance This guidance sets out some principles to think about when presenting statistical data.

5.2 Communicate insight

Communicating about quality, uncertainty and change Explore various approaches for effective communication of quality, uncertainty and change.

Communicating quality, uncertainty and change guidance Practical advice on how to communicate quality, uncertainty and change for different types of statistics and for a range of audiences.

Written Communication (LPG) Learn how to write effectively and with impact. Getting communications right can save time and money. It can also reassure your customer, help to clarify any points of uncertainty or trigger a desired response from them.

Verbal Communication (LPG) In this course, you develop skills such as crafting a compelling message and building rapport, and consider how the inflection of your voice can affect the outcome of a conversation.

Advising, Briefing and Drafting (LPG) This topic will include writing briefings, submissions, ministerial correspondence, writing for different audiences and drafting ‘lines to take’. You’ll also learn how to present an argument even-handedly and with impact so leaders can make timely and well informed decisions.

High Impact Communication (LPG) The learning offers a mix of theory and practice to learn how to use your voice in a more powerful way, speak with more enthusiasm and passion, and use techniques to control any nerves in front of groups of all sizes. You’ll be more confident when communicating verbally and be better at delivering important messages. This workshop is helpful for those newly appointed to SCS.

5.3 Quality assurance

Data Quality (LPG) Whether you use data regularly for reporting purposes or only occasionally to help inform specific projects, it is crucial that you have confidence in both the data and the data analysis techniques. This e-learning helps you to consider data quality issues and equips you to have more effective discussions with data specialists.

Quality of Evidence, Uncertainty and risk (LPG) Quality of data can be a significant consideration. This topic builds your confidence in assessing, compiling, assimilating, distributing, interpreting and presenting a strong evidence base. It also covers the effect personal biases can have on results.

Getting your numbers right: Analytical quality assurance for non-analysts (Face to face workshop offered by BEIS). Contact the Analysis Function team for more information and when the next course will be run by emailing analysis.function@ons.gov.uk.

5.4 Software programming, tools and techniques

This learning is open to all members of the Government Statistical Service community.

Awareness of new coding tools This course aims to provide participants with an awareness of the new coding tools. It is a non-technical course aimed at people with little or no knowledge of programming,

Introduction to R This course focuses on applying skills and building confidence, independence and resilience in using R, so that you can continue your learning beyond the classroom.

Intro to Python This course focuses on applying skills and building confidence, independence and resilience in using Python, so that you can continue your learning beyond the classroom.

Data Science courses via Data Camp Courses offered by the Data Camp website take you from a complete data science beginner through to data visualisation, machine learning, forecasting, and beyond.

Introduction to Pyspark This course will give you an understanding of Pyspark, the Python interface to the distributed processing tool Spark. With it, you will be able to handle huge data sets effortlessly, and process, query, and manipulate data which is beyond the reach of traditional programming languages.

5.5 Leadership skills

Fast Stream programmes across the analytical professions:

• Government Statistical Service Fast Stream
• Government Economic Service Fast Stream
• Government Operational Research Fast Stream
• Government Social Research Fast Stream
• Digital Data and Technology Fast Stream

Aimed at Administrative Assistants (AA) and Administrative Officers (AO) up to Grade 6 and 7, the Positive Action Pathway (PAP) programme aims to increase the representation of female, BAME, disabled and LGBTI colleagues across the Civil Service:

• Positive Action Pathway for AA/AO
• Positive Action Pathway for Executive Officers
• Positive Action Pathway for Higher Executive Officers and Senior Executive Officers
• Positive Action Pathway for Grade 6 or 7 (LPG)

Crossing Thresholds is a 12-month career mentoring programme that allows women looking to develop their career in a structured and supportive environment:

• Crossing Thresholds for AO/EO
• Crossing Thresholds for HEO/SEO
• [Crossing Thresholds for G6/7 (LPG)]https://learn.civilservice.gov.uk/courses/Yw28e7KeQIGpjRXQnV3qxg)

Aimed at Grade 6 and 7:

Future Leaders Scheme (LPG): The Future Leaders Scheme (FLS) is a 2-year, cross-government accelerated development scheme for high-potential grades 6 and 7 across the Civil Service and arm’s length bodies.

Aimed at Senior Civil Service (SCS):

Senior leaders scheme(LPG) The Senior Leaders Scheme (SLS) is a 2-year, cross-government accelerated development schemes for high-potential deputy directors (SCS pay band 1) across the Civil Service and arm’s length bodies. It contributes to creating a strong, diverse and robust pipeline for the most senior roles in government.

Deputy Director Induction Programme (LPG) Marking the start of the year-long induction programme for new deputy directors, Base Camp is a two-day, residential programme of presentations, interactive sessions and facilitated networking. The programme is hosted by senior leaders from departments across the Civil Service.

Enhancing your leadership impact for senior leaders (LPG) Self-awareness and understanding of your impact on others is an important element to a leader’s success. If you understand your personal drivers, you are more able to work with – rather than against – them. This increases your personal motivation and resilience and makes you more effective at leading teams.

Civil Service Orientation: Leading in the Civil Service For those of you who are Senior Civil Servants (SCS) and new to the Civil Service, you are invited to attend the Civil Service Orientation to support you in your transition.

6. Additional learning

Below is a list of learning aligned to the main skills listed for the analytical roles within this document. This is a summary of the type of learning available to you, and further learning is available should you require it. Please get in touch if there is a particular skill you are trying to develop, and we can signpost you to the most relevant learning.

6.1 Analysis

Analysing Evidence: Effective Communication (LPG) An introduction to the benefits of evidence-based policymaking and the variety of sources from which that evidence can come. Learn how evidence is collated and analysed and how best to present it. Find out about statistical sampling through to controlled trials, learn about the techniques and measures colleagues use, as well as the limitations of the data they work with.

GSS Analytical Learning Pathway This learning is open to all staff in the Government Statistical Service. The analytical pathway matches relevant analytical training to the specialist competencies within the Government Statistician Group (GSG) competency framework. It is split by the different job grades within the GSG profession.

Data and Analysis (LPG) Knowing how to analyse and use both open data (openly available raw data) and the more traditional sources of data is an important skill for any policy professional. As is being able to communicate what that data tells you. This topic also covers the risks that arise from data use, as well as issues around privacy, such as data sharing and matching.

6.2 Good IT and mathematical skills with the ability to learn new systems and ways of working

Numeracy resources (LPG) GDS Academy Masterclasses

Digital and Agile Awareness course for Analysts

6.3 Data managament

Introduction to Data Ethics

This short online course will help you identify and successfully manage ethical issues that may arise as part of statistical research and the production of statistics. It is designed to help you apply ethical principles to your research.

This learning is predominantly aimed at those aligned to the GSS, but additional places can be provided to those outside of the profession. Please contact analysis.function@ons.gov.uk for further information.

6.4 Quality Assurance, Validation and data linkage

Introduction to Data Linking This learning is aimed at those aligned to the GSS profession. The course provides participants with an introduction to the principles, theory and practice of data linking.

Data Quality (LPG) This e-learning helps you to consider data quality issues and equips you to have more effective discussions with data specialists.

Quality Assurance of Administrative Data This learning is predominately aimed at those aligned to the GSS, but additional places can be provided to those outside of the profession. Please contact the Analysis Function Central Team for further information.

6.5 Data modelling, data cleansing, and data enrichment techniques

Data cleansing skills development will be informed by the systems or software you are using and the relevant quality consideration.

6.6 Statistical Methods and Data Analysis

Introduction to quality in statistics The aim of this online course is to give an overall awareness of quality in statistics. It is developed as an introductory course to be done before the quality statistics in government course.

This learning is predominantly aimed at those aligned to the GSS, but additional places can be provided to those outside of the profession. Please contact analysis.function@ons.gov.uk for further information.

Quality statistics in Government This learning is predominately aimed at those aligned to the GSS, but additional places can be provided to those outside of the profession. Please contact analysis.function@ons.gov.uk for further information.

Introduction to statistical disclosure control This classroom-based session aims to introduce participants to potential disclosure risks and available statistical disclosure control methods. This learning is available to those aligned to the GSS profession.

Code of practice for statistics This learning is available to those aligned to the GSS profession.

6.7 Project management

Agile Project Management – Foundation

Agile Project Management – Practitioner

Project Planning (LPG) The topic describes the tools available to help you create an effective plan and takes you through the most important considerations of the planning process.

6.8 Data analysis

Data Analyst Apprenticeships

MSc in Data Analytics

6.9 Statistical software tools and techniques

Introduction to editing and imputation This learning is available to those aligned to the GSS profession. The course aims to introduce participants to the processes of editing and imputing in surveys. The course considers the editing process of detecting and correcting errors in survey response data, as well as the imputation process of estimating for non-response in surveys. The focus of the course and practical examples will mostly relate to business surveys.

Intermediate Editing and Imputation This learning is available to those aligned to the GSS profession. The classroom-based session aims to introduce participants to the processes of editing and imputing in business and social surveys. It considers the editing process of detecting and correcting errors in survey response data, as well as the imputation process of estimating for survey non-response.

Awareness of new coding tools This learning is available to those aligned to the GSS profession. The course aims to provide participants with an awareness of the new coding tools. We will compare them with R and Python and discuss when they are best used. It is a non-technical course aimed at people with little or no knowledge of programming.

6.10 Economics

Please email analysis.funcion@ons.gov.uk for learning opportunities available in economics.

6.11 Survey Design

Introduction to sample design and estimation in business surveys This learning is available to those aligned to the GSS profession. The classroom-based course aims to introduce participants to sampling design and estimation considerations in business surveys. The course considers the sampling frame, sample design, calibration weights, outliers and the estimation process.

Intermediate sample design and estimation for business surveys This learning is available to those aligned to the GSS profession. The classroom-based session aims to explore more complex aspects of sampling and estimation that are particularly applicable to business (or establishment) surveys.

Intermediate sample design and estimation for social surveys This learning is available to those aligned to the GSS profession. The classroom-based session aims to explore more complex aspects of sampling and estimation that are particularly applicable to social (household) surveys.

6.12 Geography

Introduction to Geography for Statistics This course will introduce participants to the importance of geography in the collection, production and use of statistics. The course also teaches the generic elements of geographic knowledge and understanding needed for good analysis and research.

The Association for Geographic Information Events Calendar This calendar promotes training courses for Geographic Information specialists

Royal Geographical Society Events

6.13 Data Science

Data Science Accelerator Programme

Alan Turing events on Data Science and AI

Online Data Science Courses via Data Camp

Data Science Seminar Series The Data Science Campus seminar series is a friendly and informal space for the ONS data science community to share knowledge and discuss projects, innovation and challenges in data science.

Data Science Degree Apprenticeships

7. Routes into analysis

7.1 A career by numbers

You can develop a career in analysis through a variety of entry routes, including mainstream recruitment, apprenticeships and the analytical Fast Stream schemes.

Mainstream recruitment

Departments run separate campaigns for varied roles. Many of our professions run cross-government campaigns which departmental Heads of Profession bid for analysts at various times of year. Grades and frequency varies based on profession.

Apprenticeships

There are a number of apprenticeship programmes across the Function. The recruitment campaigns for degree apprenticeships have September start dates, with Level 4 programme recruitment more frequently.

Fast Stream and student placements

There are Fast Stream programmes for economists, statisticians, operational researchers, social researchers and digital, data and technology. Campaigns run annually with start dates each September.

Additionally, there are opportunities to bid for students at various times of year with recruitment running in February.

“I really enjoy the fast paced, challenging atmosphere in my department and the flexibility of my job which means I get involved in a lot of topical policy areas. I am definitely looking forward to building my career”

Davita Patel Higher Statistical Officer, statistics profession

Further information

More information about working in analysis

8. Analysis in Practice

The AF uses research, evidence and data to advise government on the best use of public resources. The role of the Function is to support everyone in government to make better decisions so that policy and operations, deliver value for money and improve the lives of the people of the UK.

How the AF uses finance statistics to assist Treasury with economic decisions:

• a wide range of economic indicators is vital to both HM Treasury and Bank of England
• the UK’s fiscal and economic policy is built on the public sector finance statistics
• statistics are a fundamental input to OBR forecasts of the economy and public finances
• they enable the treasury to make decisions based on the latest economic position against OBR forecasts and government targets

How integrating the AF into decision making improved planning for pandemic flu:

• modelling is integral to developing contingency plans for pandemic influenza
• the involves in-house analysis and synthesis of expert independent input
• outputs include worst-case scenario planning, countermeasures, disease epidemiology and vaccine application
• analytical advice directly informs the decision-making process and action taken across government

9. Analysis standard

The Government Functional Standard for Analysis underpins the Analysis Function Career Framework by setting expectations for the planning and undertaking of analysis, to build trust and confidence and enable better informed decision making relating to government policy, operational and financial matters, and the wider public debate.

Adherence to the Standard is an important requirement of each role included within this framework.

The Standard ensures analysts of different professions align their use of language and terminology, making it easier to work together, especially as part of a multidisciplinary team.

10. Career stories

Analysis in government and the role of analysts offers a huge variety of experience and opportunities to make an impact.

Meet some of our members to find out about their Career stories

11. Common skills

Working in consultation with analysts across-government, the framework highlights skills which are common across typical analytical roles. These skills are recommended for individuals to explore as part of their development to support movement into roles across the Function.

These skills do not replace existing analytical profession frameworks which articulate specific technical skills.

Data Visualisation – Able to interpret requirements and present data in a clear and compelling way, using graphical representations and data visualisations.

Communicating Insight – Strong verbal and written communication skills, sharing insights with stakeholders.

Quality Assurance – The ability to conduct out data quality assurance, validation and linkage.

Software programming, tools and techniques – The ability to use coding and programming skills for data analysis.

12. Common behaviours

The Career Framework highlights the behaviours which are common across typical analytical roles and recommended for individuals to explore as part of their development into Senior Civil Servant roles. It is not mandatory to include these behaviours on every role.

Departments have the option to choose any additional relevant behaviours, technical, experience, strengths and ability elements in line with the Success Profiles methodology.

12.1 Recommended behaviours to support development into leadership roles

Leadership – Proven ability to effectively lead and manage a team. Principal / Lead Data Analysts may be responsible for the management of workload or management of teams. Leadership skills should be continually developed to support and facilitate movement into senior leadership roles.

Communicating and Influencing – Communicate with others in a clear, honest and enthusiastic way to build trust. Explain complex issues in a way that is easy to understand. Deliver difficult messages with clarity and sensitivity, being persuasive when required.

Working together – Actively build and maintain a network of colleagues and contacts to achieve progress on shared objectives. Challenge assumptions while being willing to compromise if beneficial to progress.

Making effective decisions – Clarify your own understanding and stakeholder needs and expectations, before making decisions. Ensure decision making happens at the right level. Encourage both innovative suggestions and challenge from others, to inform decision making.

For more information, see the Recommended Civil Service Behaviours - PDF version or the Recommended Civil Service behaviours - accessible version

13. Skill level definitions

Expert – Has knowledge and experience in the application of this skill. Is a recognised specialist and advisor in this skill including customer needs, generation of ideas, methods, tools and leading or guiding others in best practice use.

Practitioner – Shares knowledge and experience of the skill with others, including tools and techniques, defining those most appropriate for the environment.

Working – Applies knowledge and experience of the skill, including tools and techniques, adopting those most appropriate for the environment.

Awareness – Has knowledge of the skill and an appreciation of how it is applied in the environment.

14. Glossary of terms

Job Family – Grouping of roles with similar characteristics.

Role profile – High level overview of the relevant technical and leadership skills required for roles across the Analysis Function within each job family across the career framework.

Job description – Specific role details which will contain relevant profession / department details used to support recruitment and selection.

Career pathway – Describe a career journey. Individuals have information available to them to help make career choices and plan multi-professional/functional careers whatever their location.

Career framework – Main element of supporting individuals to grow and develop their career within a function / profession which will support to create career pathways across the Civil Service.

Success Profiles – Recruitment assessment framework to attract and retain people.

Profession agnostic – A role that could be undertaken by individuals with the relevant skills or experience from any profession.

Technical Specialist – This could be a “badged” or professional role subject to entry requirements and development i.e. Economist or Statistician.

15. Role profiles and career paths

See Role profiles and career paths