PSPREG416A
Conduct data analysis

This unit covers activities involved in analysing and matching data from a range of sources. It includes analysing information, and documenting outcomes of the analysis.In practice, analysing data may overlap with other generalist or specialist public sector work activities, such as acting ethically, complying with legislation, exercising regulatory powers, gathering and analysing information.No licensing, legislative, regulatory or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of endorsement.

Application

Not applicable.


Prerequisites

Not applicable.


Elements and Performance Criteria

ELEMENT

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA

1. Analyse data

1.1 Analysis is undertaken dependent upon the nature of the data and intended purpose of the analysis.

1.2 Methods of analysis are selected in accordance with any relevant industry standards, precedents and techniques.

1.3 Trends are identified and inferences drawn in light of environmental and cultural factors relevant to the particular situation.

1.4 The chain of reasoning in formulating inferences is made clear to ensure transparency to users of the data.

1.5 A proactive approach is taken to identify and assess the need for new or changed systems and processes for analysing data to more effectively meet objectives.

2. Document outcomes of analysis

2.1 Recommended actions are based upon analysis of data in the context of the purpose of the analysis and the objectives and priorities of the organisation's strategies and plans.

2.2 Links between the outcomes proposed as a result of the data analysis and the organisation's strategies are made clear to the intended audience.

2.3 Timely and relevant reports are completed and disseminated to appropriate staff and management.

2.4 Results of data analysis are incorporated into ongoing review of organisational strategies and plans.

2.5 Documentation is prepared that is clear, concise and accessible to all relevant staff.

Required Skills

This section describes the essential skills and knowledge and their level, required for this unit.

Skill requirements

Look for evidence that confirms skills in:

undertaking analysis and problem solving

reading and applying complex information from legislation

communicating including questioning and negotiating meaning

responding to diversity, including gender and disability

undertaking planning and time management in the context of data analysis

preparing written reports and recommendations requiring accuracy, and formal structures and language

using information technology for data analysis, recording and reporting

applying public sector legislation such as occupational health and safety and environmental procedures in the context of data analysis

Knowledge requirements

Look for evidence that confirms knowledge and understanding of:

methods of analysis

relevant legislation including privacy and freedom of information legislation, as well as public interest disclosures, protected disclosures or whistleblowing legislation

agency structure, services and environment

data collection and management systems

the range of analytical techniques appropriate for information analysis

inductive/deductive reasoning processes

the influence of human factors on data analysis, for example:

prejudice and bias

personalities in analysis

construction of sound inductive arguments

fallacies in reasoning

how data analysis outcomes can contribute to the review of national strategies/plans

equity and diversity principles

public sector legislation such as occupational health and safety and environment relating to investigations

Evidence Required

The Evidence Guide specifies the evidence required to demonstrate achievement in the unit of competency as a whole. It must be read in conjunction with the Unit descriptor, Performance Criteria, the Range Statement and the Assessment Guidelines for the Public Sector Training Package.

Units to be assessed together

Pre-requisite units that must be achieved prior to this unit:Nil

Co-requisite units that must be assessed with this unit:Nil

Co-assessed units that may be assessed with this unit to increase the efficiency and realism of the assessment process include, but are not limited to:

PSPETHC401A Uphold and support the values and principles of public service

PSPFRAU401B Monitor data for indicators of fraud

PSPGOV406B Gather and analyse information

PSPGOV408A Value diversity

PSPGOV422A Apply government processes

PSPLEGN401A Encourage compliance with legislation in the public sector

PSPREG401C Exercise regulatory powers

PSPREG412A Gather and manage evidence

Overview of evidence requirements

In addition to integrated demonstration of the elements and their related performance criteria, look for evidence that confirms:

the knowledge requirements of this unit

the skill requirements of this unit

application of the Employability Skills as they relate to this unit (see Employability Summaries in Qualifications Framework)

analysis of data in a range of (3 or more) contexts (or occasions, over time)

Resources required to carry out assessment

These resources include:

legislation, regulations, policy, guidelines and standards

public sector values and codes of conduct

case studies and workplace scenarios to capture the range of data analysis situations likely to be encountered

Where and how to assess evidence

Valid assessment of this unit requires:

a workplace environment or one that closely resembles normal work practice and replicates the range of conditions likely to be encountered when analysing data, including coping with difficulties, irregularities and breakdowns in routine

analysis of data in a range of (3 or more) contexts (or occasions, over time)

Assessment methods should reflect workplace demands, such as literacy, and the needs of particular groups, such as:

people with disabilities

people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people

women

young people

older people

people in rural and remote locations

Assessment methods suitable for valid and reliable assessment of this competency may include, but are not limited to, a combination of 2 or more of:

case studies

demonstration

observation

projects

questioning

scenarios

authenticated evidence from the workplace and/or training courses

For consistency of assessment

Evidence must be gathered over time in a range of contexts to ensure the person can achieve the unit outcome and apply the competency in different situations or environments


Range Statement

The provides information about the context in which the unit of competency is carried out. The variables cater for differences between States and Territories and the Commonwealth, and between organisations and workplaces. They allow for different work requirements, work practices and knowledge. The also provides a focus for assessment. It relates to the unit as a whole. Text in italics in the Performance Criteria is explained here.

Analysis can be:

quantitative and/or qualitative

explorative

descriptive

causative

predictive

Methods of analysis can include:

hypothesis development

link analysis

comparative analysis

biographical analysis

demographic or geographic analysis

historical analysis

scenario generation

Delphi technique

morphological analysis

Data sources may include:

program files

agency systems

other agencies

law enforcement agencies

standards setting organisations

Incorporation may be in terms of:

identifying and assessing risk

monitoring and reviewing procedures


Sectors

Not applicable.


Competency Field

Regulatory.


Employability Skills

This unit contains employability skills.


Licensing Information

Not applicable.