Abstract
The objective of this paper is to present a framework for discussion of the requirements which the users of statistics on the dynamics of employment (DE) would like these statistics to satisfy, with some observations on the possibilities of data collection instruments for meeting these requirements, as well as suggestions for an extension of the labour force framework which may be developed to describe and analyze the dynamics of employment. The discussion focuses on data collection situations where it is possible to determine whether two events involve the same or different persons or establishments and is organised with respect to the following broad types of use of the statistics:
a. to formulate, implement and evaluate policies designed to influence DE;
b. to monitor actual developments with respect to DE; and
c. to describe and analyze DE structures and behaviour.
The type of DE statistics needed for each of these types of use is discussed with respect to the following quality dimensions:
• population coverage;
• units of observation;
• timeliness and frequency;
• geographic resolution;
• consistency with other statistics and over time; and
• main and descriptive variables, in terms of
– validity of definitions;
– resolution and validity of value sets; and
– reliability of measurements.
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