While these data provide useful insights, the researchers point out that they pose more questions than answers. Although the relationship between migration an economic growth is clear, the direction of that effect is not. To answer these and any other basic economic questions in Arkansas, Shbikat and Jeff Collins, director of the Center for Business and Economic Research of the Walton College of Business, have developed the Arkansas Indexes of Economic Indicators. But it has never existed in Arkansas until now. In the past, the available data might be six months to a year old, or even older.
Current data are essential for forecasting and making sound business decisions.
The Arkansas Indexes of Economic Indicators draw on a variety of non-published data from sources in state and national government and local industries. Collins and Shbikat want to expand the data to include an Arkansas consumer confidence index and a help-wanted index, which will track job availability, hiring, benefits and other employment issues.