1 Summary of available resources

1.1 Analytical IT Tools Strategy

The MoJ Analytical IT Tools Strategy describes the analytical IT tools analysts are recommended to use along with the ways of working to be followed.

1.2 Analytical Platform

The Analytical Platform is a data analysis environment, enabling the use of modern open source tools such as R and Python, and holding key datasets for MoJ analysts.

To learn more about the Analytical Platform and to get up and running, go to the Analytical Platform chapter. More extensive information is provided by the Analytical Platform user guidance.

1.3 R mentoring

It is recommended that all who are new to R or Data and Analysis request an R mentor. The purpose of the scheme is to provide a better on-the-job R learning experience and raise awareness of the preferred Data and Analysis ways of working that will for instance enable people to get up to speed more quickly with others’ code. The scheme is also open to non-coders who need to use the Analytical Platform to advise them through the learning process, and for those commencing a more complex project involving the use of R.

To request an R mentor please complete this mentee form. If you could become an R mentor (we have a shortage of mentors) please complete this mentor form. For more information please contact Jose Vieira.

1.4 Internal Training Group materials

This internal training is recommended for those working in Data and Analysis as it enables you to get up and running with R, SQL, Python and GitHub using the MoJ Analytical Platform. The main introductory R, SQL and GitHub sessions are usually run live in February/March, June/July and October/November each year while you can also work through R, SQL and Python sessions yourself using the training material and/or recordings. To learn more about the sessions currently available and how to access the material and recordings, go to the Internal Training Group materials chapter.

1.5 Coffee and Coding

The internal training (see above) is complemented by Coffee and Coding presentations. These presentations usually take the form of a demonstration of a tool or technique and/or a show and tell of work done within the department using particular coding methods. For more information go to the Coffee and Coding chapter.

1.6 Bitesize sessions

There are also shorter Bitesize sessions on a variety of topics. For more information please contact Aidan Mews.

1.7 Analytical Function training

There are many Analytical Function training opportunities for analysts including about specialist topics not presently covered internally. Examples useful for RAP practitioners include Best practice in programming – clean code and a more lengthy Introduction to unit testing than currently available internally. You can learn more about such opportunities via:

1.8 Datacamp

Paid Datacamp licenses are beneficial to cover gaps in current training provision that are not currently picked up by either internal or Analytical function training e.g. training in Power BI and more advanced or niche R, SQL, and Python skills. You can read more about Datacamp here.

If you would like to have a Datacamp license please contact the Data and Analysis People Team providing a brief explanation about why it will be important for your work along with approval from your G6 (further approval will be needed if you are outside Data and Analysis).

1.9 Other assistance

Technical help can be requested via the following Data and Analysis slack channels:

  • intro_R which provides support to those starting out in the world of R and RAP.
  • R which is for beginners and experts alike.
  • sql
  • python

You may also find useful a trello board providing Links to further free online analytical training including in R and R cheatsheets. There are also many useful free R and Python books on the web, for instance for Python: