IMF Data Standards Initiatives

Source details

Session No.: OL 26.241
Location: Course conducted online
Date: July 20, 2026 - December 31, 2026 (24 weeks)
Delivery Method: Online Training
Primary Language: English
Qualifications: Some knowledge of economics and statistics is helpful. Access to a computer with a reliable Internet connection and basic Microsoft Excel skills are essential.

Global audience of professionals engaged in the production, dissemination, and use of official macroeconomic and financial statistics.
Particularly targeting staff in ministries of finance, central banks, national statistical offices, and other public institutions responsible for data compilation, dissemination, and coordination under the IMF's data standards frameworks.
Suitable for participants new to the Data Standards Initiatives and for those seeking to refresh or deepen their understanding of the DSIs.

Purpose: Introduces the global framework that helps countries strengthen the dissemination of key macroeconomic and financial statistics to support better policymaking, greater credibility, and stronger confidence among data users.
Emphasis: Explains why data transparency is a global public good and how the DSIs promote more accessible information for policymakers, markets, and the public.
Design: Practical and easy to follow, with clearly defined learning objectives.
Modules:
- Introduction to data transparency and the DSIs
- Module focused on the e-GDDS
- Module covering the SDDS and SDDS Plus

By the end of the course, participants will be able to:
- Explain the importance of data transparency and the benefits of data dissemination standards
- Summarize the benefits of dissemination standards
- Describe the structure and requirements of the DSI framework across its three tiers—the e-GDDS, SDDS, and SDDS Plus
- Identify strategies to enhance transparency and develop a roadmap for progressing to the next tier