联合国贸易发展委员会-2020年数字经济统计数据编制手册（英文）-2021.5-231页_1mb

Summary of Manual for the Production of Statistics on the Digital Economy (2020 Revised Edition)

Core Content

The Manual for the Production of Statistics on the Digital Economy (2020 Revised Edition) is a comprehensive guide for national statistical offices (NSOs), especially in developing and transition economies, to produce reliable and internationally comparable statistics on the digital economy. It includes the measurement of the information and communications technologies (ICT) sector, trade in ICT goods and services, and the use of ICT by businesses.

Main Objectives

• To support the production of digital economy statistics that are internationally comparable.
• To provide guidance on collecting, processing, and disseminating data on the digital economy and related metadata.
• To offer practical tools and model questionnaires for measuring ICT use and digital trade.
• To address institutional and methodological challenges in developing economies.

Key Themes and Main Points

1. Importance of ICT Statistics

• ICT statistics are crucial for designing, monitoring, and reviewing national policies and strategies related to digital economy and society.
• These statistics help assess the impact of ICT on economic and social development and monitor the digital divide.
• The demand for such data is increasing as more countries seek to leverage ICTs for growth and development.

2. ICT Indicators for Policymaking

• The Partnership on Measuring ICT for Development has developed a core list of ICT indicators endorsed by the United Nations Statistical Commission (UNSC).
• These indicators are used to measure access, use, and impact of ICTs across countries and sectors.
• The Manual reflects the latest revisions of this core list and includes updated model questionnaires.

3. Digital Economy Measurement Concepts

• The Manual outlines a conceptual framework for measuring the digital economy, including definitions of e-commerce, digital trade, and ICT-enabled services.
• It explains the different types of e-business and digital trade, emphasizing the need for a clear understanding of these concepts to ensure accurate data collection.

4. Statistical Standards and Indicators

• Chapter 4 provides detailed standards for measuring various aspects of the digital economy, including:
  • ICT demand (use)
  • ICT sector (supply of goods and services)
  • Trade in ICT goods and services
  • Value of e-commerce
• These standards are aligned with international classifications and definitions, such as ISIC Rev. 4 and CPC Ver. 2.1.

5. Data Sources and Collection Methods

• The Manual describes data sources and collection methods, including:
  • Use of the Generic Statistical Business Process Model (GSBPM)
  • Business surveys, censuses, and administrative data
  • Survey modules and stand-alone ICT use surveys
• It emphasizes the importance of data quality control and the use of existing surveys when resources are limited.

6. Model Questionnaires and Surveys

• The Manual includes model questionnaires and survey modules for:
  • Measuring ICT use in businesses
  • Capturing exports of ICT-enabled services
• These tools are designed to be adaptable and provide a framework for data collection across different economies.

7. Data Processing and Dissemination

• It covers data processing techniques, including:
  • Micro-editing rules
  • Corrective weighting
  • Imputation of missing data
• Dissemination strategies include tabulation plans, metadata reporting, and the use of standard classifications to ensure clarity and comparability.

8. Institutional and Methodological Issues

• The Manual highlights the need for cooperation among stakeholders in the national statistical system.
• It addresses the challenges of capacity-building and the integration of ICT topics into national statistical programs.
• The role of international organizations and partnerships, such as the Partnership on Measuring ICT for Development, is emphasized.

Key Information

• The Manual was first published in 2007 and has been updated in 2009 and 2020.
• It is part of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) efforts to support developing economies.
• It includes 10 annexes with additional technical guidance, definitions, classifications, and model questionnaires.
• The Manual complements UNCTAD's work on digital economy measurement through its Working Group on Measuring E-commerce and the Digital Economy.

Target Audience

• National statistical offices (NSOs)
• Statisticians in developing and transition economies
• Policymakers and researchers interested in the digital economy

Challenges and Opportunities

• Developing countries face significant challenges in collecting and measuring ICT data due to limited resources, lack of standardized methodologies, and insufficient data collection frequency.
• The Manual aims to address these challenges by providing a practical, structured approach to data collection, processing, and dissemination.
• It supports the development of national ICT and digital economy strategies, which are essential for leveraging the opportunities presented by the digital transformation.

Conclusion

The Manual for the Production of Statistics on the Digital Economy serves as a vital resource for improving the availability and quality of ICT data in developing countries. It provides a structured and internationally aligned approach to measuring the digital economy and supports the development of evidence-based policies and strategies.