Small-biz data still elusive

Study: Development of Business Data: Tracking Firm Counts, Growth, and Turnover by Size of Firms

Finding good and current information on small businesses is still difficult, but a new study from the Small Business Administration's Office of Advocacy shows that the situation is improving.

The study, called "Development of Business Data: Tracking Firm Counts, Growth, and Turnover by Size of Firms," shows that data collection, traditionally skewed toward large manufacturers and agriculture, is beginning to reflect he changing economy, said Chad Moutray, chief economist at the office.

"That means more emphasis on small business," he said. "This is a good first step, but as the study shows, more needs to be done to more fully understand small business and the economy."

Officials released the study today. It traces the development of small-business data during the past 25 years and examines current sources of information on small business.