There should be a clear, shared understanding of the questions to be answered and how they meet user needs. Analysis should be for the public good and in line with government policy and organisational objectives.
Analysis uses appropriate inputs and methods to produce high quality results.
Quality analysis needs to be repeatable, independent, grounded in reality, objective, have understood and managed uncertainty, and the results should address the initial question robustly (RIGOUR).
Analysis is provided in time to be useful. This should not be at the expense of quality assurance.
Ongoing quality assurance is built into processes. It is proportionate to the impact of the results on the decision being made and the risks with the intended use of the analysis.
Analysis is undertaken in line with legal and ethical obligations and any other relevant public service codes of conduct
Analysis supports effective decision-making and meets user needs through clearly presented, impartial, timely and accessible outputs. This includes clear communication of context, strengths, limitations and any quality and uncertainty issues.
Good quality analysis can be trusted to support effective decision-making and meet user needs.