Our skills audit work encompasses a range of techniques and settings, examining
issues of supply and demand for skills, linked into sensible forecasting of labour
requirements and the supply of learning to meet projected needs. We have been involved
with a number of high profile audits, including close involvement with the Future
Skills Wales programme since its inception.
Miller Research offers particular expertise in making complex information accessible
to a general audience. This is especially true in the area of Curriculum Audits,
where we typically take data from a range of information sources and combine them
into a single dataset. This can then be further analysed (for example using GIS
Mapping), or may be placed on a secure website for easy interrogation.
Our research has had considerable impact on policy in such areas as:
- Educational reorganisation, following analysis of delivery for local or sub-regional partnerships
- Business support, through evaluation of business and enterprise support programmes
- Rural policy, through reviews of rural support programmes
- Programme delivery, through testing effectiveness of existing arrangements, or attitudes towards planned
initiatives
Primary research needs to be underpinned by robust statistical analysis. Our roots
lie in preparation of data and commentary to match particular requirements, for
example for a particular sub-region or local area. Using web-based sources or exisiting
research datasets, we can bring together tailored information to meet client needs.
Sectoral Research is a Miller specialism and we have built lasting relationships
with clients in diverse sectors such as tourism, construction, media and social
care. Recent work has included compiling Sector Skills Agreements, reviewing learning
frameworks, assessing the relevance of qualifications structures and carrying out
audits of skills supply and demand. These projects all aim to improve the performance
of key industries by ensuring the supply of skilled staff.
Employment and economic output forecasting can be invaluable in shaping policy
to influence labour and skills supply. The Miller Team can provide localised or
sectoral forecasts to demonstrate employment growth, along with estimates for
replacement jobs arising out of retirements or staff leaving a particular industry.