Basic Monthly Survey Page
The process of conducting a sample survey involves numerous phases, from concept definition, to frame selection, to data collection, to the production of estimates. Even when rigorous controls are placed on process specification and implementation, there still exists the potential for error at almost any phase of the system. The quality of estimates produced from a survey depends on the bias or nonsampling error resulting from the survey process, and survey designers regularly use a variety of indicators to evaluate data quality. Process monitoring is also important for users of survey data in order to identify potential limitations of the data, and the appropriateness of its use for a given task.
The data displayed on this page present two quality measures used to monitor the potential for nonsampling error in the CPS, namely, coverage and nonresponse. It should be emphasized that these indicators show only the presence of potential nonsampling error, not the actual degree of nonsampling error present. (For a more detailed discussion of historical approches to data quality in the CPS, please consult Technical Paper 63, Current Population Survey: Design and Methodology).
The data displayed in these charts are assembled from summary statistics generated monthly by the Bureau of the Census for the BLS. Charts will be refreshed with current data every month, and additional quality measures will be added to this page in the future.
Coverage Ratios: A coverage ratio compares the estimated number of people from the survey in a specific demographic group to the same estimate from an independent population total, usually from updated decennial census estimates. Three graphs provide a picture of coverage, for the 16+ population, in the CPS over the last 3 years, by race and gender.
Nonresponse Rates: Total Nonresponse, Refusals, and Noncontacts for the Basic CPS over the last twelve months.
Nonresponse Rates by Month-in-Sample (MIS): Total nonresponse by sample group for the previous three months.
Basic Monthly Survey Page
CPS Main Page