Project workplan

EISfOM is based on research already conducted by the partners of the action, financed at local, national and/or EU level. Hence the Concerted Action gives the chance of exchanging information as well as basic methods/approaches (e.g. in data collection or processing procedures). In order to keep the project feasible, a core group approach with sub-regional co-ordination responsibilities has been adopted. Information giving an overview on the state of art in data collection and processing was collated. Besides an analysis of data collection and processing systems (DCPS) for organic markets, a benchmark approach involving analysis of DCPS for conventional agricultural products took place. This approach should contribute to the long-term harmonization of organic and conventional market data. By integrating experts and key players from all over Europe right from the beginning, an essential precondition for successful implementation of EISfOM after the project end was met.

In Phase 1, an analysis of existing systems took place (WP2, 3). This included:

• Analysing existing data collection and processing systems (DCPS) for conventional markets
• Defining a reference model for the development of DCPS for organic markets
• Analysing existing data collection and processing systems (DCPS) for organic markets
• Identifying first possibilities of integrating both types of systems

This analysis was done in 32 European countries and the results of Phase 1 were discussed at a European level with representatives of the 32 countries. Proposals were made for developing new or enlarging existing data collection and processing systems. These proposals will be the basis for developing a Quality Management System (QMS) for ensuring data quality (WP4).

This QMS was tested during Phase 2 by co-ordinating the implementation and evaluation of pilot data collection and processing systems to be implemented by partners and/or national/international statistical agencies (WP5). In order to keep this approach feasible, case studies were conducted independently by national agencies in 8 core group countries. These case studies were co-ordinated and evaluated as part of this CA. The countries selected for the case studies represented the main sub regions.

Based on the results of these case studies and the situation analysis undertaken in Phase 1, concepts for a European data information system for organic markets were elaborated. These concepts were discussed at a 2nd European seminar with national key players in statistical affairs, as a basis for developing a long-term framework for DCPS.

Finally, recommendations will be made to the Commission, to Eurostat and FAO for the development of the European information system for organic markets. This will include proposals on how to unify systems for organic as well as conventional markets. Throughout, information from participants as well as Eurostat, the FAO and market stakeholders were utilised.

During the whole process, attention has been paid to:

• The realizability in regard to given market and data structures as well as data gathering barriers
• The adaptability of pilot systems to the needs of further European countries
• The feasibility of implementating the system on a long-term basis after the project