BBS to build integrated data warehouse to modernise stats

The national statistical organisation (NSO) -- Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (BBS) -- is preparing to establish an integrated statistical data warehouse (ISDW).
The initiative is expected to strengthen the NSO, improve the quality and usability of official data, and support more timely and informed government decision-making.
The project is being financed by the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA). A pilot phase is scheduled for the third and fourth quarters of 2027, with full operational control expected to be transferred to BBS by 2028.
A master plan described the initiative as a major step towards modernising the country's statistical infrastructure.
"The ISDW will underpin BBS's digital transformation, enabling advanced analytics, geospatial integration and improved access to microdata for research and policy use," it said.
BBS produces a wide range of official statistics through surveys and censuses.
However, its current data ecosystem remains fragmented and  siloed, characterised by heterogeneous formats, incomplete metadata and largely manual processes that limit effective policy use.
The ISDW aims to address these challenges by creating a unified data warehouse and analytics environment.
It will standardise classifications and metadata to enhance coherence, comparability and data quality, while also improving access to statistics for policymakers, planners and researchers through controlled microdata access.
The system will also facilitate the integration of administrative records and selected big data sources into official statistical production.
In parallel, the project will institutionalise data governance, security and compliance frameworks, and build the human capacity required to operate and sustain the system.
Preparation of the master plan involved extensive consultations with BBS divisions, the Statistics and Informatics Division (SID), line ministries and development partners. During implementation, a BBS-led operational framework will be established alongside measures to ensure a sustainable budget.
The system will be formally launched and closely monitored to ensure stable performance, supported by a robust maintenance structure and continuous staff training.
The ISDW will be designed as a standards-based, interoperable and secure platform, integrating data from censuses, surveys, administrative systems, geospatial sources and emerging data streams.
Long-term sustainability and national ownership will be ensured by incorporating ISDW functions and costs into government structures and budgets, backed by a transition and exit strategy for KOICA support.
jasimharoon@yahoo.com