As required by law, the Census Bureau has released a Request for Information (RFI) seeking information from the public on the proposed changes and structure to BERD for the 2021-2023 cycle. Specifically, the Census Bureau will use information from the RFI to:
- Evaluate whether the proposed information collection is necessary, including whether the information will have practical utility;
- Evaluate the accuracy of the time estimate and cost burden for the proposed collection, including the validity of the methodology and assumptions used;
- Evaluate ways to enhance the quality, utility, and clarity of the information to be collected; and,
- Minimize the reporting burden on those who are to respond.
BERD was started in 2018, in conjunction with the Annual Business Survey (ABS), and continues the role of previous surveys, the Business R&D and Innovation Survey (BRDIS) active from 2008 to 2016, and the Business Research and Development Survey (BRDS) active from 2017 to 2018. Data on innovation activity were housed in BRDIS until its discontinuation, then moved to BERD. The Census Bureau now plans on moving questions related to technology transfer, intellectual property, and other innovation metrics from the BERD to the ABS.
Interested persons are invited to submit written comments, due by Aug. 27, by email to Thomas.J.Smith@census.gov.