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Time Series Analysis Training

“How do I interpret a time series?” “Should I be looking at the seasonally adjusted or trend movements?” “How do I quality assure the seasonal adjustment of my time series?”

If you are asking (or are being asked) questions like these, you may be looking for some training in time series analysis. The Methodology and Data Management Division (MDMD) considers the statistical training of ABS staff to be a key priority, enabling ABS staff to make informed decisions about their collections, and pass on this knowledge to data users.

The Time Series Analysis (TSA) section in the Analytical Services Branch (ASB) provides both formal and informal time series analysis training within the ABS, as well as responding to technical queries from external data users. Our training program includes our suite of formal training courses, which progressively provide greater technical detail about the time series analysis process.

Time Series Made Simple (TSMS)

This half-day course provides participants with a basic understanding of time series analysis, including an understanding of the components of a time series, problems and issues which may arise during seasonal adjustment, and interpretation of time series estimates. This course is ideal for new starters in areas that produce seasonally adjusted time series, or for anyone interested in increasing their understanding of time series.

Understanding Time Series (UTS)

This two day course covers the same material as TSMS in more technical detail, as well as discussing seasonal adjustment ‘ABS style’, how to resolve issues with time series data, and using the SEASABS (SEASonal analysis, ABS standards) software for data investigations. This course is primarily intended for staff in areas that produce seasonally adjusted time series, but will also be of value to staff who regularly liaise with external data users, or anyone who wants to expand their data analysis capabilities.

Producing Time Series (PTS)

This two day course provides participants with an understanding of periodic time series processing within the ABS, the responsibilities of the subject matter areas and TSA in producing and quality assuring time series estimates, and how to undertake quality assurance of time series output. It includes many exercises using the SEASABS Suite for data analysis. This course is intended for staff involved in the production of ABS time series estimates, and who have attended UTS.

The courses described above have been designed for an ABS audience, but have been presented to staff from external agencies on occasion.

If you are interested in attending time series analysis training, or want more information about our courses or to discuss the time series training needs of your area, please contact Tessa Nunan on (02) 6252 6382 or theresa.nunan@abs.gov.au.