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What is Codon?

Codon is a project working towards creating a code repository to increase code sharing, consistency of code and coding standards, and collaboration both within the DIS directorate and beyond. The code repository is surfaced on GitHub, and Python and R code is packaged for ease of use in workflows on platforms such as Databricks. The link to the code repository can be found on the left in 'Space Shortcuts'.

How to Articles

The how to articles give guidance to codon and GitHub usage.

By sharing code we:

Improve current code: The openly shared code in codon always has room for improvement. If you see a better way of doing something or find an error, submit a pull request fixing it for everyone!

Increase transparency: Openness is in line with open government data principles and builds public trust, as well as being one of NHS Digital's core values

Bring usability: By making common code accessible across the directorate, it becomes easier for people to find and use relevant code

Save time: Code reuse and documentation increases efficiency in creating higher level processes

Useful code examples:

Read in scripts: for commonly employed datasets e.g. from ONS

Standard formats: for specific characteristics e.g. consistent age bands

Common processing routines: to optimise and ensure consistency

Standardised calculations: employing an agreed methodology e.g. number of spells in the last 12 months

Common statistical models: a catalogue of standard statistical models with appropriate parameter recommendations

Output routines: best practice output routines for tabular, graphical and model outputs, providing a consistent look and feel to reports