Research areas
Uncertainty and sensitivity analysis
Sensitivity analysis is used to resolve the relative importance of the various uncertain inputs that are employed in a mathematical model. An important input will make a big difference in the final answer whilst an unimportant input won't make much difference. In uncertainty analysis the model inputs are changed to see how much the outcome of the model changes. We focus on global approaches whereby model inputs are changed simultaneously and their range of uncertainty can be large.
Composite indicators
Indices aggregate multi-dimensional processes into simplified concepts. EAS has developed a variety of statistical methodologies and technical guidelines that can help constructors of composite indicators to improve the quality of their outputs. It has published together with the OECD a "Handbook on Constructing Composite Indicators: Methodology and User Guide" in 2008 which has quickly become a reference point for practitioners constructing composite indicators in a variety of fields. The Unit develops and analyzes composite indicators in a range of domains, from lifelong learning and flexicurity to regional innovation, regional competitiveness and civic participation.
Centre for Research on Education and Lifelong Learning based on Indicators and Benchmarks
Established in 2005 in order to provide expertise in the field of indicator-based evaluation and monitoring of education and training systems and their contribution to the achievement of Community objectives specified in the Lisbon Agenda and more recently in the EU2020 agenda as regards this domain. CRELL combines expertise in the fields of economics, econometrics, education, social sciences and statistics in an interdisciplinary approach to research.
Sensitivity Auditing for Impact Assessment
Sensitivity Auditing for Impact Assessment is a new action created in 2012.
The action builds upon JRC experience in sensitivity analysis to propose the concept of Sensitivity Auditing in support to the Impact Assessment exercises under way within the European Commission.
Impact Assessment is an essential tool used to support evidence - based policy making by assessing the potential economic, social and environmental consequences of Commission policy proposals and initiatives.
When mathematical models are used in the context of policy analysis and assessment, the uncertainty in the model assumptions needs to be quantified, and its impact on predictions evaluated. Our expertise in sensitivity analysis led us to propose Sensitivity Auditing, an approach whereby model quality is gauged in relation to model use.
SAIA supports the European Commission in analyzing the technical robustness and soundness of policy impact assessments, and it has the ambition to contribute to the improvement of the quality of the European Commission's regulatory activity and Impact Assessment System (IAS).
SAIA website
Sensitivity Auditing website