The MNO-MINDS ESTP training course was held in Vienna on 9–10 April 2025, under the title "Mobile Network Operator (MNO) data: Methods for Integrating New Data Sources in Official Statistics." Organized as part of the ESSnet MNO-MINDS project by the Italian National Institute of Statistics (Istat), with support from the Austrian National Institute of Statistics (Stat), the course was included in the 2025 European Statistical Training Programme (ESTP) by Eurostat.
The ESTP course aimed to deepen participants' understanding of MNO data and further the methodological discourse on integrating MNO data with other sources. It featured a balanced combination of lectures and interactive sessions delivered by experts from project partners.
Over two days, the program explored key themes such as the potential and limitations of MNO data reuse, its role in statistical modelling, and integration with non-MNO data and sample surveys. Practical examples focused on domains like tourism and commuting statistics. The training featured a balanced mix of expert presentations and interactive discussions.
The first day began with a welcome from Alexander Kowarik (STAT) and an introduction to the ESSnet MNO-MINDS project by Tiziana Tuoto (Istat). Fabio Ricciato (Eurostat) discussed the strategic role of MNO data in official statistics, followed by Li-Chun Zhang (Statistics Norway – SSB), who reviewed past experiences and lessons learned. In the afternoon, sessions led by Sonia Quaresma (INE-PT), Gloria Deetjen (Destatis), and Louis Sanguiao Sande (INE) examined the integration of MNO and non-MNO data in tourism statistics. The day concluded with a social dinner, encouraging informal exchange.
The second day delved deeper into applications of MNO data in modelling. Li-Chun Zhang presented a transfer learning approach for trip statistics, while Loredana Di Consiglio (Istat) showcased the use of Small Area Estimation for commuting data. The role of sample surveys was then discussed in detail, with contributions from Alexander Kowarik, Loredana Di Consiglio, Marcello D’Orazio (Istat), and Li-Chun Zhang, including insights on quasi-randomization methods.
In the closing session, Li-Chun Zhang recapped key methodological insights, emphasizing practical steps for incorporating MNO data into statistical workflows. The course concluded with a farewell from Tiziana Tuoto, marking the end of a rich and collaborative training experience for the ESS community.
More information below:
Mobile Network Operator (MNO) data: Methods for Integrating New Data Sources in Official Statistics
