Research and methodology

Official statistical methodology aims at providing methods for each step of the statistical value chains. Statistical methodology is a key factor facilitating efficiency gains, quality improvement, harmonisation of statistics and burden reduction. The European Statistical System (ESS) is drawing on methodological work to optimise European statistical data production.

The main role of Eurostat is to facilitate and to contribute the coordination of methodological activities aiming at the necessary standardisation and harmonisation of statistical processes.

Information gathered on this platform aims at providing people interested in official statistics with:

• straightforward access to some European Statistical System methodological reference document, and,
• information on going projects related to statistical methodology.

A survey is a process of collecting data to describe, compare, analyse and explain knowledge, facts, attitudes and behaviour.

From the methodological perspective, the statistical survey can be split into the different phases of the statistical value chain according to:

• Survey planning and design
• Data collection
• Data processing and validation
• Data compilation
• Data analysis and visualisation
• Data post processing and dissemination.

Two specific domains related to the last phase are of particular importance in the ESS:

• Seasonal Adjustment
• Statistical Confidentiality and Disclosure Control