Survey Methodology
Comments by Eric RancourtNote 1 on “Progress in survey science and practice: Yesterday-today-tomorrow”

  • Release date: June 30, 2025
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Abstract

In his paper, Särndal is reviewing the scientific aspects of the development of the survey sampling theory. In light of multiple changes in this field, some have called for a new paradigm. Upon careful analysis, Särndal lands on saying that there has been a strong research tradition which is anchored on assumptions about finite populations and feasibility of characterizing them with only a sample. With this framework, there can still be research and change, but the paradigm would essentially remain. In my discussion of this article, after providing precisions on the context of National Statistical Offices (mainly about Statistics Canada), I agree on many points and wonder if it is not a change in methodological paradigm rather than statistical paradigm that we are witnessing and point to some possible ways forward.

Key Words:    Admin 1st; Data source; Inference; Non-survey data; Response rate.

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How to cite

Rancourt, E. (2025). Comments on “Progress in survey science and practice: yesterday-today-tomorrow”. Survey Methodology, 51(1), 49-53. Paper available at http://www.statcan.gc.ca/pub/12-001-x/2025001/article/00017-eng.pdf.

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ISSN : 1492-0921

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Survey Methodology publishes articles dealing with various aspects of statistical development relevant to a statistical agency, such as design issues in the context of practical constraints, use of different data sources and collection techniques, total survey error, survey evaluation, research in Survey Methodology, time series analysis, seasonal adjustment, demographic studies, data integration, estimation and data analysis methods, and general survey systems development. The emphasis is placed on the development and evaluation of specific methodologies as applied to data collection or the data themselves. All papers will be refereed. However, the authors retain full responsibility for the contents of their papers and opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the Editorial Board or of Statistics Canada.

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