Public and private sector uses of economic census data

This article describes the principal uses of the data collected in the Economic Census. Namely, the data serve as a framework and statistical benchmark for current economic surveys; as source data for calculating composite measures of the nation’s economy; and as the basis for planning and monitoring of national, state, and local economic policies and programs. The data also are used for research, planning, marketing, and management by private sector businesses. In addition, they are important for measuring and tracking changes in economic activity.