This document outlines generic criteria and definitions to aid in the selection and development of indicators. These guidelines have been developed with input from a wide range of organisations.
Indicators reveal a prevailing situation to their audience. They are used to identify where problems persist, where improvements have been made or where change is desirable. They can be used to set and track performance goals. Governments use indicators to monitor policy and to determine where intervention may be required. Indicators are used to gauge whether things are getting better or worse or to monitor a specific population group, such as children or older people, or specific phenomena such as cleanliness of waterways.
The following guidelines are intended as a starting point for those involved in indicator development, interpretation and dissemination and include:
The criteria for indicator selection were drawn from international and national indicator projects and best practice documentation. The section Working with Indicators lists broad considerations when developing, interpreting and presenting indicators. Definitions and links to existing indicator processes, drawn from local and international sources are included.
Statistics New Zealand considers this a working document and welcomes comments from those who use this information in order to improve it for future users. Please send comment to: info@stats.govt.nz.
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