Measuring the electronic economy at the U.S. Census Bureau

This paper discusses in detail issues dealing with the technical aspects of designing and conducting surveys. It is intended for an audience of survey methodologists.

The demand for information on the electronic economy requires statistical agencies to assess the relevancy and improve the quality of their existing measurement programs. Innovations at the U.S. Census Bureau have helped the Bureau meet the user's urgent needs for this information, and improve the quality of the data. Through research conducted at the U.S. Census Bureau, as well as tapping into the expertise of academia, the private sector, and other government agencies, the new data on electronic commerce and electronic business processes has been strengthened. Using both existing and new data, the U.S. Census Bureau has discovered that research provides new key estimates of the size, scope, and impact of the new economy.