Overview
The Office for National Statistics (ONS) previously used a manual process to protect data confidentiality in census publications. They created hundreds of datasets manually for different combinations of variables and specific geographical levels like local authorities or electoral wards. In smaller areas where data disclosure was a concern, the ONS chose not to publish data for the entire region. This was mainly a problem in rural areas with small populations, but it was less of an issue in urban areas. Unfortunately, there was no system to address this, so users had to request customised tables from the ONS, leading to increased friction and costs for the user and the organisation.
A new service was proposed offering a flexible way to access census data. Using Cantabular, backend software created by the Sensible Code Company. The goal was to develop a set of tools that enabled users to search the data with their chosen variables.
Challenges
The main challenges were to seamlessly integrate the system and user experience into the web architecture of ons.gov.uk, while also ensuring that users received adequate signposting and assistance in case they encountered statistical disclosure.
Mapping out a new service
I lead a discovery in collaboration with a user researcher, facilitating workshops with stakeholders and conducting research sessions with potential users. Through this process, we identified the key user needs and potential pain points.
We mapped out user journeys using known personas within a task model. This visualisation helped us identify the various touchpoints across the website that users interacted with when they had a need for data.
Prioritising user needs
Based on the insights gathered during the discovery, we were able to identify the key user journeys. Using this information, I designed a variety of prototypes, which we then tested with users. The findings allowed us to further refine the design and prioritise user stories for development.
A new service is launched
We made an effort to utilise components and patterns from the ONS design system. However, in certain situations, we had to develop new patterns that met the necessary accessibility requirements. To ensure compliance, we had these new patterns tested by the Digital Accessibility Centre. The service is currently in Beta and is available on the ONS website. Users are able to access more than 400 published datasets and can customise the geographies or variables based on their requirements. Alternatively, they can create their own datasets by adding variables. In cases where a user's query incurs statistical disclosure control, there are clear signposts to help them improve their results. Since its launch, the new service has been well received and has resulted in a reduced number of calls to Census Customer services. You can read more about New ways to access Census 2021 data on the ONS website.