Check a statistical series break

Check a statistical series break — method

Two values with the same label may measure different populations. Classification, coverage, collection or method changes may create a break. Metadata and flags are part of the result.

1. Describe the series

   Fix code, unit, frequency, geography, population and seasonal adjustment. Record base period for an index and denominator for a rate.

2. Read flags

   Download notes and observation status: provisional, estimated, break or missing. Missing is not zero. Check flag definitions with the producer.

3. Choose comparison

   Compare within a homogeneous segment or use a producer-published backcast series. Do not splice segments with an improvised factor; explain excluded periods.

Situations and decisions

Typical situations for preparing a check. They do not describe completed assignments or actual observations.

Record to retain

• Code, dimensions, unit and frequency.
• Extract version, flags and methodological notes.
• Comparable segment, calculation and justified exclusions.

Official references

• Eurostat — métadonnées
• Eurostat — qualité

Related source profiles

• Eurostat · Data Browser
• Insee · Séries chronologiques
• OECD Data Explorer

Related protocols

• Assess a public dataset before reuse
• Keep a reproducible version of public data

Checks before reaching a conclusion

• Check whether only the base changes or method and scope change too.
• Compare extracts from one version and retain the old release when analysing revisions.