The Quarterly Services Survey (QSS) is not designed to measure services activity for specific geographic levels, so current estimates of revenue in those areas are unavailable. For data from other Census Bureau sources on the areas impacted by weather related events, please see the Census Bureau’s Emergency Preparedness page.
Does the Census Bureau produce quarterly services estimates for the affected areas?No. We cannot isolate the effect of natural disasters on the Quarterly Services Survey (QSS) estimates since the sample is designed to measure services activity at the national level and not for specific geographic levels.
As a result of any natural disasters, does the Census Bureau modify its usual weighting or estimation methods used to produce quarterly revenue estimates?No. Because the sample is designed to measure services revenue at the national level and not for specific geographic levels, there is usually not sufficient evidence to support a change. Any exception would be indicated in that quarter’s release.
Are any estimates ever withheld or delayed because of data collection problems related to natural disasters?Unless noted in the specific release, all estimates are released as scheduled.
Can the reliability of the quarterly services estimates change because of natural disasters?Unless noted in the specific release, the reliability of the estimates as measured by the coefficient of variation for quarterly totals and the standard error for quarter-to-quarter change does not change substantially. While a few individual firms can report large increases or decreases in their revenue because of the effects of a natural disaster, this additional variation is not typically large enough to substantially affect the reliability of the published estimates.
Does the Census Bureau alter the procedures for developing seasonally adjusted estimates for the Quarterly Services Survey (QSS) due to natural disasters?No. Unless noted in the specific release, the quarterly review process of the seasonal adjustment output and diagnostics does not indicate that adjustments to the parameters are necessary.
How do natural disasters impact the Census Bureau’s ability to collect data from respondents?Depending on the timing, a natural disaster could impact our ability to collect data for companies in that area for a given quarter. We actively monitor response and adjust collection schedules as necessary. Any deviation from the normal response rates would be highlighted in that quarter’s release.
How does the Census Bureau determine the impact of natural disasters on the companies?Through our data collection process, companies can provide information on their performance in a given quarter. Additionally, companies with unusual trends possibly due to a natural disaster are contacted for validation and an explanation of the reason behind that particular quarter's response.
What activities does the Census Bureau plan to ensure the affected areas will continue to be accurately represented?As part of our data collection, we will continue to ask questions that will help us monitor impacts from the affected areas. We will monitor data responses and make adjustments when necessary.
