SUPPORTING STATEMENT – PART B
U.S. Department of Commerce
U.S. Census Bureau
Current Industrial Reports
B. Collection of Information Employing Statistical Methods
1. Universe and Respondent Selection
We select the mailing panels for each CIR survey independently. Since CIR surveys are product-oriented, the universe of establishments is often very small; thus, sampling techniques are not cost-effective. If the universe is large, we may use an employment-based or production-level cutoff or a probability sample to select the mail panel.
Attachment E shows the size of the universe, the number of establishments in the mail panel, the current response and coverage rates, and the survey methodology. The response rate on the individual surveys varies by industry and the frequency of the survey.
2. Procedures for Collecting Information
The web site provides the survey scope, coverage, and explanation of the sampling methodology if probability or cutoff sampling is used for each survey. To view this information go to: http://www.census.gov/cir/www/geninfo.html. For copies of the latest data releases go to this web address: http//www.census.gov/cir/www/ind_num.html.
3. Methods to Maximize Responses
Establishments that do not respond receive follow-up telephone calls and/or letters. For monthly and quarterly surveys, large establishments that have not reported on time are included in a telephone follow-up operation. For the annual surveys, we mail two follow-up letters to nonrespondents before a telephone follow-up operation. Additionally, we work closely with representative trade associations and industry contacts in attempting to encourage and improve response.
4. Tests of Procedures or Methods
On a continuing basis we investigate new technologies and methodologies. We incorporate into our CIR program those we find to be more efficient and cost-effective.
5. Contacts
Mr. Mendel D. Gayle, Assistant Chief for Census and Related Programs of the Manufacturing and Construction Division, serves as consultant on the collection, analysis, and the dissemination of the CIR data. He can be reached on (301) 763-4587.
Mr. Paul L. Hsen, Assistant Chief for Research and Methodology of the Manufacturing and Construction Division, serves as consultant on the statistical aspects of the CIR program. He can be reached on (301) 763-4586.
Attachments
A 2008 OMB Clearance Contact List for Mandatory and Voluntary Surveys
C Letters to Respondents
D Mandatory and Voluntary 2008 Work Sheet General Information
E Mandatory and Voluntary 2008 Work Sheet Panel Size, Burden Hours, and Response Rate
E-1 Mandatory and Voluntary 2008 Work Sheet Column Descriptions
F Mandatory and Voluntary 2007 Work Sheet Burden Hour Adjustment
| File Type | application/msword |
| File Title | SUPPORTING STATEMENT – PART B |
| Author | allen001 |
| Last Modified By | quash001 |
| File Modified | 2008-07-21 |
| File Created | 2008-07-21 |