Economic Statistics and the Media

• Activity Number: 267
• Type: Invited
• Date/Time: Tuesday, August 5, 2014 : 8:30 AM to 10:20 AM
• Sponsor: Committee on Excellence in Statistical Reporting
• Author(s): Michael Levi*+
• Companies: Bureau of Labor Statistics
• Keywords: Media ; Dissemination ; Credibility

Abstract

Producers of economic statistics look to the media to act as multipliers, extending the audience for data and analysis beyond a community of specialists. Media outlets, in turn, look to statistical organizations to provide content that is either interesting in itself or that can help illuminate a newsworthy story.

Mr. Levi will address the challenges faces by the statistical community in working with and through the media. He will begin by discussing the significance of changes in the environment: the contraction of established media organizations and concomitant reduction in statistical expertise among reporters, as well as the proliferation of alternatives to traditional print and broadcast channels.

Mr. Levi will then discuss principles and techniques for better engaging with the media through the effective presentation of data, analysis, and methodology. He will focus on the twin goals of establishing and maintaining credibility, and making statistical products accessible to lay audiences.