Tatiana Scoarta, National Bank of Moldova
Vesna Plaznik, Statistical Office of Slovenia
Ms. Tatiana Scoarta, National Bank of Moldova:
The course on Residential Property Price Indices (RPPIs) provided practical guidance on methods for compiling RPPIs based available data and country-specific characteristics. From beginning to end, the course was intensive. It was an important stepping-stone because it helped the participants to achieve a comprehensive overview, from conceptual issues to actual compilation of the price indices. The course will make a valuable contribution to compilation of a fit-for-purpose RPPI for the Republic of Moldova as we still do not have one. What we learned will help us to select the most appropriate method for compiling the RPPI based on the available data and other issues, such as the quality-mix problem.
Learning and networking in face-to-face training is very useful because it encourages participants to exchange experiences, which can give valuable insights into what can eventually be implemented. For instance, the combination of lectures and workshops during the course was essential because it facilitated international comparability. Participants understood better that different users have different needs; they became more aware of details related to data and methods, and they provided or received recommendations on how to facilitate the setting-up of RPPIs in countries where they are missing, and how to improve existing indices where that becomes necessary.
Ms. Vesna Plaznik, Statistical Office of Slovenia:
We learned at the course about several methods of calculating indices, how to compare them, and—what is most useful—how to interpret the results. The theory was well-reasoned and supported by practical examples from real situations, which will definitely help me in my future work.
The course has also helped me to evaluate the appropriate methods for analysing and evaluating existing data, which will benefit me in my research. I find face-to-face training very instructive and useful as we get to know the practical problems that can arise in our work and exchange experiences with colleagues from other countries. Basically, sharing practices and looking from different perspectives often leads to good ideas.
In addition, I also very much liked visiting Vienna; it is a very nice city and the free time that remains after the lectures can be used for sightseeing. I recommend seeing the old city centre with the St. Stephen's Cathedral and City Hall, and, of course, the Gardens of Schönbrunn.
Prepared by Luka Zupancic, Joint Vienna Institute