Computer aspects of the use of registers in statistical offices

Registers of business entities are maintained by many national statistical offices, and are used as survey frames for economic censuses and sample surveys. They can be created and maintained from administrative data sources such as taxation files. Classification data is normally added by the statistical office, and it should be correct and timely, and applied in a consistent manner throughout the register. Although businesses must often be represented by complex reporting structures, hierarchical numbering systems are not recommended. Record linkage techniques are important in merging administrative lists with the register, and in detecting duplicates within it. Computer systems designed to maintain a register will usually employ modern data base techniques, and may make use of dedicated equipment. Data dictionary techniques are needed to make the register maintenance system sufficiently flexible to adapt to new demands.