Maintaining and Enhancing Labor Statistics during the COVID-19 Pandemic
AEA Papers and Proceedings
vol. 111,
May 2021
(pp. 317-20)
Abstract
The US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) continued to produce key employment statistics while reengineering operations as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. In-person data collection moved to electronic, deadlines were adjusted, and flexibilities were implemented to get the job done, all while maintaining confidentiality and data quality. Opportunities arose, such as collection of new information from households and businesses on changes that resulted from the pandemic. This is a story that continues to unfold and will transform the way BLS moves forward. This paper focuses on changes in BLS operations and in the economy as reflected in BLS data.Citation
Beach, William W. 2021. "Maintaining and Enhancing Labor Statistics during the COVID-19 Pandemic." AEA Papers and Proceedings, 111: 317-20. DOI: 10.1257/pandp.20211048Additional Materials
JEL Classification
- C82 Methodology for Collecting, Estimating, and Organizing Macroeconomic Data; Data Access
- E20 Consumption, Saving, Production, Investment, Labor Markets, and Informal Economy: General (includes Measurement and Data)
- J20 Demand and Supply of Labor: General
- I12 Health Behavior