Database Specific
Database Specific Abstract AbstractThe BCS is an annual survey and is the vehicle for the ABS' Integrated Business Characteristics Strategy (IBCS). The strategy integrates the collection and quality assurance of data required for input into both the ABS’s Business Characteristics Longitudinal Statistics (BCLS) and the production of point in time estimates for: use of information technology; innovation; and a broad range of other non-financial business characteristics. A more detailed set of items of either business innovation or business use of IT are collected every second year (i.e. in alternating years).
Source Source Contact person/organisation Contact person/organisationFor further information about these and related statistics, contact the National Information and Referral Service on 1300 135 070.
Data source(s) used Data source(s) usedAll data was collected through the annual Business Characteristics Survey.
Data Characteristics Data Characteristics Base period Base periodThe reference period for most of the characteristics items included in the 2017-18 BCS is during the year ended 30 June 2018 or as at 30 June 2018. Financial data relates to the most recent financial year ended on or before 30 September 2018.
Sampling SamplingCollection of data included in this release was undertaken based on a random sample of 7,500 businesses via online forms or mail-out questionnaires. The sample was stratified by industry and an employment-based size indicator. All businesses identified as having 1000 or more employees were included in the sample.
Unit of measure used Unit of measure usedPercentage of businesses unless specified
Population & Scope Population & Scope Statistical population Statistical populationFor more information about the scope and coverage of this collection, please see the Explanatory Notes
Other Aspects Other Aspects Quality comments Quality commentsPlease refer to the quality declaration.
Recommended uses and limitations Recommended uses and limitationsWhen interpreting the results of a survey, it is important to take into account factors that may affect the reliability of the estimates. Estimates in this publication are subject to both non-sampling and sampling errors. Please refer to the technical note.
The BCS is an annual survey and is the vehicle for the ABS' Integrated Business Characteristics Strategy (IBCS). The strategy integrates the collection and quality assurance of data required for input into both the ABS’s Business Characteristics Longitudinal Statistics (BCLS) and the production of point in time estimates for: use of information technology; innovation; and a broad range of other non-financial business characteristics. A more detailed set of items of either business innovation or business use of IT are collected every second year (i.e. in alternating years).
For further information about these and related statistics, contact the National Information and Referral Service on 1300 135 070.
All data was collected through the annual Business Characteristics Survey.
Percentage of businesses unless specified
Collection of data included in this release was undertaken based on a random sample of 7,500 businesses via online forms or mail-out questionnaires. The sample was stratified by industry and an employment-based size indicator. All businesses identified as having 1000 or more employees were included in the sample.
The reference period for most of the characteristics items included in the 2017-18 BCS is during the year ended 30 June 2018 or as at 30 June 2018. Financial data relates to the most recent financial year ended on or before 30 September 2018.
For more information about the scope and coverage of this collection, please see the Explanatory Notes
When interpreting the results of a survey, it is important to take into account factors that may affect the reliability of the estimates. Estimates in this publication are subject to both non-sampling and sampling errors. Please refer to the technical note.
Please refer to the quality declaration.