In this newsletter we share topical issues, such as information about new ready-made datasets, free additional storage space available in FIONA for the replacement of pseudonyms, and a data protection workshop organised by the FIRE project.
In spring, we carried out our annual customer survey. This year, we received more critical feedback about our activities than in previous years. The responses particularly highlighted the length, clarity and predictability of the user licence process, as well as communications, guidance and prices of services.
The results are also in line with the broader survey by Aki Koivula, Outi Sirniö and Olivia Maisalmi (in Finnish), which examined the licensing processes of register authorities.
At the same time, the feedback emphasised that the quality of Statistics Finland’s datasets is considered good and that the expertise and service attitude of the personnel are valued. The criticism focuses primarily on the strain of the system, resources and the slowness of processes.
We have taken this feedback on board and are directing our development efforts particularly towards improving the smoothness and predictability of the licensing process. A key question is how the process better can reconcile the needs of research, legislative requirements and the authority’s responsibility for disclosing data.
Kind regards,