How does CBS collect data?

CBS collects as much information as possible from existing government and business registers. The use of this information is regulated by law, with top priority given to privacy and reliability. Additionally, CBS collects data through its own surveys, keeping in mind that it is required to reduce the administrative burden (from survey taking) to a minimum. CBS’ statutory task is to compile and publish the statistics that are mandatory.

Sixty percent of the figures collected and analysed by CBS come from registers of authorities and businesses, such as the PIVA (population register), the Tax and Customs Administration, annual reports from businesses to calculate the GDP, or data from energy companies on household and business energy consumption. The main advantage of using data from registers is that CBS no longer has to contact individuals and businesses as often, which makes the survey process less intensive and time-consuming for everyone.

40 percent from surveys

Forty percent of the figures are collected from businesses and citizens. This is done by means of surveys, conducted mostly face-to-face or – on a smaller scale – online.

Combining all these data sources in an innovative and reliable way creates greater possibilities to produce new, up-to-date, society-oriented and more detailed statistics, while keeping a sharp eye on privacy and reliability.

Facts that matter

CBS stands for a well-informed society, with information that is based on facts. CBS provides reliable, objective information for the insight that government and society require. In doing so, CBS contributes to social debate, research, policy development, and decision-making.