Using Establishment Characteristics to Predict Respondent Mode Preferences in the Occupational Employment Statistics Survey

• Activity Number: 190
• Type: Contributed
• Date/Time: Monday, August 2, 2010 : 10:30 AM to 12:20 PM
• Sponsor: Section on Government Statistics
• Author(s): Carrie K. Jones*+
• Companies: Bureau of Labor Statistics
• Keywords: Mode predictors ; Establishment survey ; response mode ; Mode preference

Abstract

The Occupational Employment Statistics (OES) Survey, conducted by U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and State partners, is a voluntary establishment survey that produces occupational employment and wage estimates by industry and geographic area. Solicitation is conducted primarily via mail. Respondents are given several data submission options including mail, telephone, facsimile, email, and internet. Previous research indicates that establishment characteristics influence whether a firm responds to the survey. In this analysis we examine firm characteristics such as size, location, industry, or multi-unit employer for predictors of response mode preferences. Identifying the preferred mode may lead to a tailored collection strategy that could increase response rates and lower survey costs. This poster presentation will identify characteristics most likely to influence mode preference.