Data collection and quality assurance problems in consumer price indices

Abstract

The process of data collection has a very big influence on the overall quality of the CPl, especially its timelines and accuracy. The paper discusses the importance of the design of price collection forms and the selection of data collectors with proper qualifications, right characteristics and varied skills and qualities. The role and methods of training data collectors and the key func­ tions of data collection supervisors are presented. Suggestions are made for ensuring that data col­ lectors, once trained, are retained and their morale maintained. Some other issues mentioned in­ clude the need for good relations between data collectors and respondents to obtain accurate data and for care when using secondary data sources as their needs may not coincide with those of the CPl programme. The timing, frequency and timeliness of data collection and the timely and accu­ rate publication of CPl are discussed. The use of computers to assist both in the data collection process and in assuring the quality of the data is advocated. Quality adjustment in the price of an item presents a very complex problem and many difficulties for data collection arising from it are mentioned. Methods for the development and establishment of a quality assurance programme in­ volving and in consultation with data collectors and supervisors as well as fully exploiting the power of computers are given.