Abstract

Statistical Offices play a crucial role in providing accurate, reliable, and timely statistical information to support evidence-based decision-making. As the ecosystem in which Statistics Offices function evolves, it becomes essential for these Statistical Offices to continuously adapt their capabilities to stay relevant and deliver value for their stakeholders.

This paper explores how Statistical Offices can modernize to deliver value to their ecosystems, by reviewing the drastic transformation of Statistics Center Abu Dhabi (SCAD), from being a traditional Statistical Office to becoming a new age Statistical Office and becoming an enabler of data driven decision-making in its ecosystem.

SCAD, in a relatively short period of three years, was able to deliver major value to its ecosystem through innovative approaches in transforming its organizational and talent capabilities. This paper details how SCAD transformed its organizational capabilities such as agility, collaborations and partnerships, digital and data management, portfolio management, research and innovation etc. Additionally, it also looks at the transformation of SCAD’s talent capabilities especially through upskilling, reskilling, and changes to its leadership and management practices.

The paper aims to provide recommendations that will be helpful for any Statistical Office looking to modernize in the changing ecosystem and deliver on its stakeholder’s expectations. By providing the details on SCAD’s context, journey, challenges, changes, adaptations, successes, learnings etc. throughout its transformation, this paper aims to equip Statistical Offices with an evidence-based case study in modernization and adaptation in changing ecosystem dynamics.