A sampling and estimation methodology for sub-annual business surveys

A sample design for the initial selection, sample rotation and updating for sub-annual business surveys is proposed. The sample design is a stratified clustered design, with the stratification being carried out on the basis of industry, geography and size. Sample rotation of the sample units is carried out under time-in and time-out constraints. Updating is with respect to the selection of births (new businesses), removal of deaths (defunct businesses) and implementation of changes in the classification variables used for stratification, i.e. industry, geography and size. A number of alternate estimators, including the simple expansion estimator and Mickey’s (1959) unbiased ratio-type estimator have been evaluated for this design in an empirical study under various survey conditions. The problem of variance estimation has also been considered using the Taylor linearization method and the jackknife technique.