Ensuring the quality of the labor force estimates from the Current Population Survey : a total survey perspective

The Current Population Survey is the primary source of labour force data for the United States. Throughout any survey process, it is critical that data quality be ensured. This paper discusses how quality issues are addressed during all steps of the survey process, including the development of the sample frame, sampling operations, sample control, data collection, editing, imputation, estimation, questionnaire development. It also reviews the quality evaluations that are built into the survey process. The paper concludes with a discussion of current research and possible future improvements to the survey.