What questions will be asked on the census forms?
Key questions cover employment, payroll, certain other expenses, and measures of output, e.g., sales, receipts, or value of shipments. This chart lists major data items asked of firms in manufacturing and construction; in wholesale trade; and in all other industries. How will the 1997 forms differ from the ones my firm completed for 1992? The questionnaires for the various sectors have been made more similar. Many census forms have been shortened and ask fewer questions. The company summary questionnaire has been dropped. Questions on some forms have been made more detailed to accommodate classification according to the new (North American Industrial Classification System). Can I use estimates? Estimates are acceptable where the information requested is not readily available from business records. How can I get an advance look at the forms my company is to receive? Sample forms may be examined now, and the rest of the forms will become available over the next several months. There are
