The SSRCS was formulated to ensure conformity with standard definitions, concepts and classifications, and consequently, the reliability, comparability and accuracy of statistics generated out of said surveys and/or censuses. Its specific objectives are:

• to ensure sound design for data collection;
• to minimize the burden placed upon respondents;
• to effect economy in statistical data collection;
• to eliminate unnecessary duplication of statistical data collection; and
• to achieve better coordination of government statistical activities.

Scope and Coverage

The process of evaluating a survey and/or census proposal dwells primarily on the following aspects:

• the need for the conduct of the survey/census - Will the need for the data justify the conduct of the survey, or are there other more cost-effective means of generating the data?;

• unnecessary duplication - To minimize the conflicting data and rationalize allocation of statistical responsibilities among government agencies, the next thing being considered is whether there is an existing similar activity generating the same data;

• sampling design - Is the design appropriate and efficient to come out with the desired level of reliability and level of disaggregation within the funding availability?;

• forms content and table format - Are the questions relevant to the objectives of the survey/census? Does it satisfy the prescribed standard statistical concepts, definitions and methodologies? Will the table formats provide the desired information? Are these burdensome to the respondents?;

• operational plan - This includes the cost estimates, survey operations, etc.; and

• statistical outputs - Are the presentations effective enough to meet the objectives of the survey, to suit the needs of data users and to impart the relevance of the survey results?

All statistical surveys/censuses which are sponsored and/or conducted by government agencies, including corporations, are covered by the SSRCS regardless of the sample size and funding source. The system is intended to be implemented nationwide and its institutionalization has been started in 10 regions (Regions I, IV, V, VI, VIII, IX, X, XI, XII and CAR) where there are NSCB Regional Divisions.

Those statistical surveys which are sponsored and conducted by private offices and non-government organizations (NGOs) are not covered by the review process. However, surveys contracted out by government agencies to private organizations and NGOs are covered by the system.

Those surveys which are conducted by government agencies for their internal use, i.e. survey results will neither be published nor released to the general public, are exempted from clearance.  

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Download: SSRCS Form 1