Activity A: Map out the data and capacities required
At this stage, it is important to assess the gap between the data required for robust data analysis and the data available, as well as the challenges presented by the available data.
The NIPN policy experts review the final list of priority questions for NIPN which is the output of the consultation workshop in Step 2, to ensure these are fully aligned with the policy makers’ priorities and the political calendar (‘window of opportunity’). They also recommend the optimal order for answering questions by data analysis taking into account that initial results may influence the direction of the analysis.
The NIPN data experts review the list of questions to establish whether they can be answered based on the technical feasibility criteria. To do so they will:
- Map out the data availability and accessibility of data required to respond to the questions, while also taking into account data quality. The data landscape will be a helpful document for this exercise (section 3.1).
- Review the capacity required to access and analyse the necessary data using robust methods, within the necessary time frame. This capacity may already exist within the NIPN country team. If this is not the case, the capacity may need to be strengthened or acquired within the time frame in which results have to be produced. Ensure that these capacity development needs are adequately reflected in the NIPN capacity development plan (section 1.3).
