The Data Processing (DP) Centers, integral components of PBS hold a pivotal role by extending huge portfolio of IT Services which includes but not limited to Datacenter Services, Infrastructural Services including Internet & Intranet, Software /Apps Development Services, Hosting Services, Database Services, Data Collection / Processing Services and PBS Automation Services, in delivering accurate, timely, and comprehensive information to an extensive spectrum of stakeholders, ranging from public and private sectors to national and international organizations. With Data Processing (DP) Centers strategically located in Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi, the PBS shoulders the primary responsibility of meeting the data processing requirements that were previously handled by three distinct entities: the Federal Bureau of Statistics (FBS), the Population Census Organization (PCO), and the Agriculture Census Organization (ACO). Now consolidated as the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics, these DP Centers play a pivotal role by offering support services, such as software development tailored for processing socio-economic surveys, censuses, and various statistical endeavors aligned with policy directives and objectives.

Functions of DP Center

Here are the key functions undertaken by these DP Center:

1. Management of Datacenter of PBS (50 Server VMs, Firewalls, SAN Storage, Backups, Web Hosting)
2. Management of Network Infrastructure of 500+ nodes
3. Development, Content Management of PBS Website
4. Web and Applications Hosting Services
5. Software Development (In-house) for all Surveys & Census
6. Provision of Technical Support to PMDU
7. Provision of official E-mail Services (Zimbra Server)
8. Processing of Data Queries received through Web Portal
9. System analysis and design,
10. Application Programming/Software development,
11. Data Processing / Data Entry of all Surveys & Censuses
12. Development, operation and maintenance of Databases, 
13. Supervision of Servers and Computer operation,
14. Data Entry operations (other ancillary functions),
15. Management/control of technical reference material, 
16. Maintenance of Computer Hardware/Software,
17. Liaison with users of data processing services,
18. Network/Internet Support to PBS employees
19. Official Email Services

Contribution of DP Center in providing Data Processing & IT Based Services to PBS

The IT Infrastructure Services offered by the Data Processing Center are intricately designed to meet the diverse and demanding needs of modern information technology environments in accordance with PBS requirements. PBS Network Infrastructure serves more than 500 nodes flawlessly since 2012 and ensure the proficient management and optimization of network frameworks, fostering robust and efficient connectivity. System Administration stands as a core competence, with our experts dedicated to the meticulous governance and enhancement of system functionalities. In line with stringent data security protocols, our Backup and Recovery solutions are specially designed to safeguard critical information, providing resilience against unforeseen disruptions.

A fully dedicated IT Support and Operations team delivers steadfast assistance, offering adept troubleshooting, maintenance, and operational support to uphold seamless system functionality and address any technical challenges promptly through adept technical support and seamless system operations. At the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics’ Data Processing Center, the commitment of domain experts lies in delivering sophisticated and reliable IT Infrastructure Services, tailored to meet the complex demands of modern information systems.

At the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics Data Processing Centers, committed to remains steadfast in delivering sophisticated and reliable IT Infrastructure Services, tailored to the stringent requirements of modern data-centric operations.

Infrastructure Management

Network Administration

The Network Administration services at Statistics House encompass a comprehensive suite of tasks crucial for ensuring seamless connectivity and secure access to vital resources. This includes the provision and troubleshooting of network access throughout Statistics House, ensuring uninterrupted connectivity for all users. Our team diligently oversees the provision of secure internet access, implementing stringent protocols to safeguard network integrity within Statistics House. Continual monitoring of the network performance, security, and potential misuse is conducted to maintain optimal functionality and mitigate risks effectively. Moreover, our experts handle the critical task of patching and updating the network infrastructure, ensuring that all components are up-to-date and fortified against vulnerabilities. Additionally, efficient DNS Management practices are in place to host and manage various web portals, ensuring their accessibility and smooth operation.

The Network Administration team at Statistics House is dedicated to the meticulous management and optimization of the network infrastructure, guaranteeing secure, reliable, and high-performance connectivity across the entire establishment.

System Administration

In the domain of System Administration at the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics, a multifaceted approach is adopted to ensure the optimal functioning and security of essential systems. The team is dedicated to managing and maintaining both Physical and Virtual Servers, meticulously overseeing their configurations and ensuring their seamless operation.

The responsibility of DP Center also extends to the hosting and management of Databases and Applications, guaranteeing their accessibility, reliability, and performance. A paramount focus remains on fortifying system security to fend off potential cyber threats. To this end, stringent measures are in place to continuously monitor and enhance security protocols, mitigating risks and preventing cyber attacks effectively. Additionally, our team is committed to maintaining the overall health of servers, implementing proactive measures to optimize performance and prevent disruptions. Routine Operating System Updates and Patch Management are diligently carried out to reinforce system integrity and resilience against vulnerabilities. License Management stands as a crucial aspect of our administration efforts, ensuring compliance and efficient utilization of resources. Furthermore, our role covers the management of NTC co-located Servers, ensuring their seamless operation and maintenance.

Through careful oversight and proactive management, the PBS System Administration team is dedicated to upholding the robustness, security, and reliability of critical systems, enabling the Bureau to operate efficiently and securely.

Backup and Recovery

The Backup and Recovery framework at the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) operates through a robust, multi-layered approach to safeguard critical data. This encompasses various layers of backup mechanisms, including a dedicated Local Backup Server, a Disaster Recovery (DR) Site situated at the NTC Headquarter connected via a dedicated fiber link, and the integration of external backup devices for daily backup routines.

Automation plays a pivotal role in this process, facilitated by sophisticated Backup and Replication software. This software streamlines and automates backup tasks, ensuring efficient and timely data replication and preservation across multiple storage locations.

To guarantee uninterrupted operations, PBS has invested in uninterrupted power supply (UPS) systems and generators, providing 24/7 power backup support. This infrastructure ensures continuous functionality of backup systems even during power fluctuations or outages, reinforcing the reliability and resilience of the Backup and Recovery setup.

IT Support / Operation

The dedicated IT Support and Operations team plays a pivotal role in ensuring smooth operational continuity. The office infrastructure at N3C and Committee Rooms is equipped with comprehensive support for meetings and video conferences. This includes providing assistance for various technical needs during these sessions. Moreover, there’s a fundamental IT support system available across all sections, offering on-call assistance. Services encompass Windows and software installations, ensuring smooth network connectivity and internet provision, as well as troubleshooting diverse IT issues that may arise. Additionally, maintaining operational efficiency is a priority, ensuring that Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS), servers, and network equipment remain operational. To ensure continuous monitoring and security, night shifts are dedicated to physical monitoring, ensuring the smooth functioning of essential systems during non-office hours.

Additionally, a critical aspect of their responsibility includes maintaining the operational efficiency of crucial infrastructure components. This involves ensuring that Uninterrupted Power Supply (UPS), servers, and network equipment are consistently operational, minimizing downtime and enhancing reliability. Furthermore, a dedicated night shift team monitors the physical infrastructure, ensuring continuous functionality and swift resolution of any emerging issues to uphold uninterrupted operations throughout non-business hours.

Price statistics (on going activities)

In the realm of software development services catering to ongoing activities related to price statistics, several critical systems and applications are deployed. These include the Decision Support System on Inflation (DSSI), aimed at analyzing and providing insights into inflationary trends. Additionally, the Price Management Information System (PMIS) ensures efficient management of price-related data. The Monitoring of Price Statistics Data Processing system is instrumental in overseeing the processing of price statistics data. The DC Rate Data Collection Portal serves as a centralized platform for collecting rate data. Supervisor and Price Section Editing tools facilitate the oversight and editing of pricing sections. Furthermore, the development and deployment of Android tablet applications for SPI, CPI, WPI, RPI, and DPS on a monthly and weekly basis significantly contribute to data accessibility and analysis for stakeholders involved in price monitoring.

Sample Selection Management Information System (SSMIS)

Data Updation Facility, enabling the seamless update of information. The system includes features for Area Selection, facilitating the identification and allocation of specific regions for sampling purposes. Sample indicator Selection tools are integrated, allowing users to select relevant indicators for sampling. Additionally, the system automates the Selection of Samples, streamlining the process and minimizing manual intervention. Notably, this automation results in Reduced Manpower and Time requirements, enhancing efficiency and expediting the sample selection process significantly.

Govt. Budget Automation (For National Accounts)

In the domain of in-house software development services catering to Government Budget Automation specifically for National Accounts, several key components play a crucial role. This includes the integration of Direct Streaming of Data with SAP, enabling seamless and direct data transmission. Additionally, the provision of a robust Data Management Interface serves as a pivotal tool, facilitating efficient handling and organization of data related to national accounts within the government budget automation framework.

Trade Statistics (On Going)

The Pakistan Bureau of Statistics engages in comprehensive in-house software development tailored explicitly for Trade Statistics management. At the core of this initiative lies the Trade Statistics Data Management System, meticulously designed and consistently maintained within Islamabad. This sophisticated system encompasses a robust architecture allowing for streamlined and efficient data handling, ensuring accuracy and reliability in trade-related statistics. It boasts seamless Direct Data Streaming functionality, establishing a direct connection with PRAL (Pakistan Revenue Automation Ltd.), thereby facilitating swift and secure data integration.

Moreover, the system incorporates an intuitive Trade Statistics Dashboard. This dashboard serves as a powerful visualization interface, offering in-depth and real-time insights into various trade metrics. It enables stakeholders to access, interpret, and analyze trade statistics effortlessly, empowering informed decision-making and strategic planning. This comprehensive suite of software tools developed in-house underscores the commitment of the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics towards enhancing trade data management and accessibility for governmental and public use.

Tablet Based Surveys

In the domain of software development for Tablet-Based Surveys conducted by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics, several pivotal initiatives have been undertaken. These encompass the development of the Android/Tablet Based Prices Collection System (TPCS), specifically designed to facilitate the streamlined collection of prices. Additionally, there’s the Tablet-Based Data Collection for the PSLM Survey 2019-20 at the district level, enabling efficient data gathering for this survey. Furthermore, the development of the Mouza Census – 2020 system stands as a testament to the Bureau’s commitment to modernize data collection methods, ensuring accuracy and efficiency in gathering pertinent information at the local level.

he Database Management Services offered by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) are integral to maintaining efficient data operations. The Database Administration team oversees a spectrum of tasks, including fine-tuning and ensuring the security of existing databases to uphold their optimal performance. They diligently integrate and map all databases, ensuring seamless interoperability and efficient data flow. Additionally, the team manages vector data meticulously, ensuring its proper organization and utilization within the system.

Our Information Retrieval services cater to various sections at PBS, offering essential support for critical operations. This support extends to facilitating desk work related to the Integrated Agriculture Census, aiding in planning for the forthcoming Economic Census, and enabling comprehensive data analysis for the Digital Census. Additionally, we assist in conducting miscellaneous data analysis activities utilizing various databases, contributing valuable insights across diverse sectors.

Furthermore, PBS undertakes the critical task of taking over the Digital Census Database. This extensive process involves the installation and configuration of Linux servers, setting up Oracle Database Management Systems, meticulously migrating data for the Digital Census, and integrating it seamlessly with other databases within the PBS infrastructure. These comprehensive and meticulous services underscore our dedication to providing robust and integrated Database Management Services, essential for efficient data handling and retrieval across diverse operations within the Bureau.

Database Administration by:

• Fine Tuning & Security Assurance of Existing Databases

• Integration & Mapping of all Databases

• Management of Vector Data

Information Retrieval for Different Sections at PBS for:

• Desk Work of Integrated Agriculture Census

• Planning for Economic Census

• Data Analysis of Digital Census

• Miscellaneous Data Analysis Activities Based on Different Databases

Taking over of Digital Census Database by:

• Linux Server Installation and Configuration

• Oracle DBMS Installation & Configuration

• Digital Census Data Migration

• Integration with Other Databases at PBS

Covid Smart Lock Down Management System

The Covid Smart Lock Down Management System, a pioneering GIS-based software developed by our DP Cener, operating seamlessly with the National Command and Operation Center (NCOC), the system integrates patient statistics with geo-coordinates obtained in real-time. Patient Coordinates provided by NCOC were strategically overlaid onto the block-level digital map of Pakistan, utilizing spatial queries to identify and generate hotspots. This invaluable information, derived from the intersection of pandemic data and census data, is furnished to the NCOC to implement the Smart lockdowns Nationwide. The Covid Smart Lock Down Management System stands as a testament to our commitment to technological innovation for effective pandemic response.

GIS Based Census 2017 Dashboard

The GIS-Based Information System for Census 2017, an innovative software product developed by our organization, stands as a comprehensive dashboard built upon the block-level digital infrastructure established during the Population & Housing Census of 2017. This user-friendly dashboard offers in-depth city-wise insights derived from the census data, pinpointing crucial information down to the block level. It encapsulates almost all vital indicators of census data. From population density, religious affiliations, and ethnic compositions to the availability of essential utilities such as gas, water, and electricity, this system presents a holistic view of societal demographics. Moreover, it provides insights into literacy rates, housing amenities like kitchens, internet accessibility, washrooms, toilets, age distribution, and room-wise household details.

Dashboard For Population & Housing Census 2017

Web-Based Census 2017 Dashboard is a comprehensive platform designed to provide an in-depth analysis of the Population & Housing Census 2017 data. It Covers a diverse demographic aspects derived from the census. Users can navigate through a user-friendly interface to explore vital statistics, trends, and graphical representations related to population and housing statistics. The dashboard also empowers users with the ability to make detailed comparisons across different geographical levels. It facilitates a comprehensive comparison tool presenting insights at Province, Division, District, and Tehsil levels. This comparison feature enables stakeholders to distinguish and analyze variations, patterns, and key indicators across these administrative divisions, for a deeper understanding of regional dynamics. It also delivers comprehensive reports generated from the Census data.

Survey Monitoring System (GIS)

The GIS-based Survey Monitoring System for the Labour Force Survey (LFS) is a comprehensive software application designed by our organization. It offers a multifaceted approach to monitoring and managing survey progress. The system utilizes choropleth maps to illustrate the progression of Enumerators across various administrative hierarchies, providing a clear visual representation of their advancement. One of its key functionalities includes the ability to collect data both within and outside predefined block boundaries, ensuring comprehensive coverage. The system employs a marker coloring feature that intuitively distinguishes Enumerators’ locations based on attributes such as data collection status, whether collected, pending, or no response. Additionally, it enables the visualization of the specific routes taken by Enumerators within their designated enumeration areas, enhancing oversight and efficiency in survey management.

The Data Processing Center at the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics has successfully developed several in-house software solutions aimed at automating various administrative processes. These include the implementation of the Human Resource Management Information System (HRMIS), optimizing personnel management operations. Additionally, there’s the innovative Hiring of Residential Buildings Information System, streamlining the process of building acquisition for bureau operations. Moreover, the center has developed the Medical Bill Management System, facilitating efficient management of medical expenses. Lastly, the Litigation Information System has been developed to enhance the management and tracking of legal proceedings effectively. These software solutions reflect the Bureau’s commitment to leveraging technology for improved efficiency and data management.

Furthermore, the center has implemented the Medical Bill Management System, a cutting-edge solution tailored for the efficient handling and tracking of medical expenses. This system enhances transparency and precision in managing medical bills incurred by the Bureau.

Lastly, the Litigation Information System developed by the Data Processing Center stands as a testament to the Bureau’s commitment to modernization. This system effectively manages and tracks legal proceedings, enabling streamlined oversight and management of litigation matters.

These in-house software solutions underscore the Bureau’s dedication to leveraging technology to enhance operational efficiency and data management across various administrative domains.

Human Resource Management Information System (HRMIS)

• Record keeping of Employees

• Transfer of Employees

• Promotion of Employees

• Management of Leave Record

• Different Reports Required by Section

Hiring of Residential Buildings Information System

• Automation of Employees hiring process

• Generation of different Notes Required by Section

• Generation of Budget Estimates Reports

Medical Bill Management System

• Automation of Medical Bill Issuance

• Summary for approval of Cases

• Budget Estimation

• Creation Of Lability Reports

Litigation Information System

• Record Keeping of all Court Case

• Courts Wise Report Generation

Budget Management & Information System (BM&IS)

• Role based access to all offices of PBS

• Generation of detailed Budget Statement

• Integration of Various reports

• Budget Heads Management

• Budget Management

• Re-Appropriation Management

• Insights of Expenses at different stages

• User Management

• Customized Dashboards at office level

The Budget Management Information System (BMIS) developed by our DP Center is a robust and user-friendly software solution tailored to streamline and optimize budgetary processes within our 36 Offices across Pakistan. This system provides an integrated platform for comprehensive budget Management, Planning, allocation, tracking and analysis. Offering real-time insights, BMIS empowers organizations to make informed financial decisions, effectively manage resources, and enhance fiscal transparency.