The economic census is the primary source of detailed facts about the nation s economy. Businesses compare their sales to census totals for their industry or area to make plans and evaluate performance. Companies use the data to lay out territories, or to locate new stores or offices. Firms use census data to target industries for marketing. Consultants and researchers use the data to analyze changes in economic structure.
Legislators use the data in the preparation and evaluation of new laws.
1997 Economic Census Most of the 1997 Economic Census will be published only on the web. A few selected reports, primarily national data and general statistics by state, will be issued in print. Further details as to locating or purchasing reports can be found on the Census Bureau web site. Both systems categorize establishments by the principal activity in which they are engaged. For a good overview of the census consult An Introduction to the 1992 Economic Census .