1.1. Contact organisation
Statistics Finland
1.2. Contact organisation unit
Economic Statistics
1.3. Contact name
Restricted from publication
1.4. Contact person function
Restricted from publication
1.5. Contact mail address
FIN-00022 Statistics Finland
1.6. Contact email address
Restricted from publication
1.7. Contact phone number
Restricted from publication
1.8. Contact fax number
Not required.
2.1. Metadata last certified
31 October 2025
2.2. Metadata last posted
31 October 2025
2.3. Metadata last update
31 October 2025
3.1. Data description
Statistics on Business enterprise R&D (BERD) measure research and experimental development (R&D) performed in the business enterprise sector, i.e. R&D expenditure and R&D personnel. In line with this objective, the target population for the national R&D survey of the business enterprise sector consists of all R&D performing enterprises (including all R&D performers – occasional and continuous, known and unknown - in all branches and size classes) belonging to this sector. The “enterprise” is defined in Council Regulation (EEC) No 1993/696 of 15 March 1993. The results are related to the population of all R&D performing enterprises classified in Sections A to U of the common statistical classification of economic activities as established by Regulation (EC) No 1893/2006 of the European Parliament and of the Council (NACE Rev.2).
The main concepts and definitions used for the production of R&D statistics are given by OECD (2015), Frascati Manual 2015: Guidelines for Collecting and Reporting Data on Research and Experimental Development, The Measurement of Scientific, Technological and Innovation Activities, which is the internationally recognised standard methodology for collecting R&D statistics, and by Eurostat’s European Business Statistics Methodological Manual on R&D Statistics (EBS Methodological Manual on R&D Statistics).
The guiding document to preparing the quality reports is the European Statistical System (ESS) for Quality and Metadata Reports — re-edition 2021.
Since the beginning of 2021, the collection of R&D statistics is based on Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) No 2020/1197 of 30 July 2020. The Regulation sets the framework for the collection of R&D statistics and specifies the main variables of interest and their breakdowns at predefined level of detail.
3.2. Classification system
- The distribution of principal economic activity and by industry orientation are based on Statistical classification of economic activities in the European Community (NACE Rev. 2);
- The local unit for the statistics are compiled at regional level according to NUTS 2 – Nomenclature of Territorial Units for Statistics;
- The distribution by socioeconomic objectives (SEO) are based on Nomenclature for the Analysis and Comparisons of Scientific Programmes and Budgets (NABS);
- The fields of research and development are based on Classification and distribution by Fields of Research and Development (FORD).
- The R&D personnel and researchers by educational attainment are classified by the International Standard Classification of Education ISCED 2011
3.3. Coverage - sector
Please see the sub-concepts 3.3.1 to 3.3.5. in the full metadata view.
3.3.1. General coverage
Definition of R&D
R&D comprise creative and systematic work undertaken in order to increase the stock of knowledge - including knowledge of humankind, culture and society - and to devise new applications of available knowledge.
3.3.2. Sector institutional coverage
| Business enterprise sector (BES) |
Enterprises with 10+ persons employed in all NACE classes are covered. Also, known R&D performers in the size-class 1-9 persons employed. |
|---|---|
| Hospitals and clinics | Included if they belong to the BES. University hospitals are part of HES. |
| Inclusion of units that primarily do not belong to BES and the borderline cases. | Not applicable. |
3.3.3. R&D variable coverage
| R&D administration and other support activities | According to the Frascati manual guidelines. |
|---|---|
| External R&D personnel | According to the Frascati manual guidelines internal personnel. |
| Clinical trials: compliance with the recommendations in FM §2.61. | According to the Frascati manual guidelines. |
3.3.4. International R&D transactions
| Receipts from rest of the world by sector - availability | Not available. |
|---|---|
| Payments to rest of the world by sector - availability | Not available.. |
| Intramural R&D expenditure in foreign-controlled enterprises – coverage | R&D performed in Finland by foreign-owned enterprises available. |
3.3.5. Extramural R&D expenditures
According to the Frascati Manual, expenditure on extramural R&D (i.e. R&D performed outside the statistical unit enterprise) is not included in intramural R&D performance totals (FM, §4.12).
| Data collection on extramural R&D expenditure (Yes/No) | Yes. |
|---|---|
| Method for separating extramural R&D expenditure from intramural R&D expenditure | There is a question on the extramural R&D in all sectors. The main purpose of the question is to make sure that respondents do separate extramural and intramural expenditure. Detailed instructions are provided for the respondents. Published results cover R&D performers only. |
| Difficulties to distinguish intramural from extramural R&D expenditure | Quality is assured by software checks and manual editing. In order to clarify the distinction there is in the intramural R&D expenditure a cost item: purchased services fully integrated in the unit's own R&D. |
3.4. Statistical concepts and definitions
Please see the sub-concepts 3.4.1 and 3.4.2 in the full metadata view.
3.4.1. R&D expenditure
| Coverage of years | Calendar year, however enterprise can report equivalent most recent fiscal year. Time series as from 1972. |
|---|---|
| Source of funds | No deviations from FM. Data on the funding sources requested by the Eurostat are produced. Breakdowns internal/external and exchange/transfer funds are as such not directly collected but can be estimated. |
| Type of R&D | FM breakdown available. |
| Type of costs | Wages and salaries; other current costs with subgroups: other current costs, purchased services (services directly linked to own R&D); capital expenditure. |
| Economic activity of the unit | NACE-class of the responding enterprise defined by the Business enterprise register. |
| Economic activity of industry served (for enterprises in ISIC/NACE 72) | Not available. |
| Product field | Available, equal to the Eurostat and OECD data collections (based on the NACE). |
| Defence R&D - method for obtaining data on R&D expenditure | Defence units belonging to the BES are included in survey. However, defence R&D as such is not differentiated. |
3.4.2. R&D personnel
See below.
3.4.2.1. R&D personnel – Head Counts (HC)
| Coverage of years | End of calendar year. Time series as from 1971. |
|---|---|
| Function | Data available by breakdown: researchers; other R&D personnel. |
| Qualification | Data available by breakdown: PhD’s or equivalent (ISCED 8); university degree, polytechnics or equivalent, master or bachelor level (ISCED 6-7); other education |
| Age | Not available. |
| Citizenship | Not available. |
3.4.2.2. R&D personnel – Full Time Equivalent (FTE)
| Coverage of years | Calendar year. Time series as from 1971. |
|---|---|
| Function | Data available by breakdown: researchers; other. |
| Qualification | Data available by breakdown: PhD’s or equivalent (ISCED 8); university degree, polytechnics or equivalent, master or bachelor level (ISCED 6-7); other education. |
| Age | Not available. |
| Citizenship | Not available. |
3.4.2.3. FTE calculation
The survey questionnaire request from R&D performers the R&D person-years performed during calendar year of the survey by staff of the enterprise. A R&D person-year is defined as full-time R&D work for one person (including 4-6 weeks annual leave). Frascati recommendation at least 0,1 FTE is respected.
3.5. Statistical unit
The statistical unit for BERD is the enterprise as defined by Council Regulation (EEC) No 1993/696 of 15 March 1993, if there are deviations please explain.
3.6. Statistical population
Please see the sub-concepts 3.6.1 and 3.6.2 in the full metadata view.
3.6.1. National target population
The objective of the European R&D statistics is to cover all intramural R&D activities. In line with this objective the target population for the national R&D survey of the Business Enterprise Sector should consist of all R&D performing enterprises (including all R&D performers – occasional and continuous, known and unknown - in all branches and size classes) belonging to this sector. In practice however, countries in their R&D surveys might exclude some enterprises for which R&D activities are deemed to be non-existent or negligible, in order to limit the response burden or due to budgetary constraints.
| Target population when sample/census survey is used for collection of raw data | Target population when administrative data or pre-compiled statistics are used | |
|---|---|---|
| Definition of the national target population | Known or supposed R&D performers. |
|
| Estimation of the target population size | R&D panel updated by a sample. |
|
| Size cut-off point | Known or supposed R&D performers, no cut-off point; census of enterprises with 100+ employees; sample of enterprises with 10-99 employees. |
|
| Size classes covered (and if different for some industries/services) | Known or supposed R&D performers, no cut-off point; census of enterprises with 100+ employees; sample of enterprises with 10-99 employees. | |
| NACE/ISIC classes covered | All NACE-classes covered. |
3.6.2. Frame population – Description
The target population is the population for which inferences are made. The frame (or frames, as sometimes several frames are used) is a device that permits access to population units. The frame population is the set of population units which can be accessed through the frame and the survey data really refer to this population.
| Method used to define the frame population | The frame is the business register of Statistics Finland. It covers all the active enterprises. A panel of known or supposed R&D performers is constructed from this frame. |
|---|---|
| Methods and data sources used for identifying a unit as known or supposed R&D performer | 1) Enterprise has reported R&D in the previous R&D survey by Statistics Finland; 2) Enterprise has received public R&D funding. Authorised by Statistics Act Statistics Finland can request a complete listing of the enterprises with public R&D funding from the funding organisations. 3) Enterprise has applied for R&D tax support. |
| Inclusion of units that primarily do not belong to the frame population | Not applicable. |
| Frequency and the methods applied for inclusion R&D performers not known and not supposed to perform R&D | The R&D panel is annually updated by a sample which is drawn from the rest of the frame after the panel has been formed. |
| Number of “new”1) R&D enterprises that have been identified and included in the target population | There were 424 enterprises with no R&D t-1 but R&D in t=2023. |
| Systematic exclusion of units from the process of updating the target population | Units with less than 10 persons employed included only if they are known R&D performers (reported R&D t-1, public R&D grant or R&D tax support). |
| Estimation of the frame population | Based on the complete business register. |
1) i.e. enterprises previously not known or not supposed to perform R&D
3.7. Reference area
Not requested. R&D statistics cover national and regional data.
3.8. Coverage - Time
Not requested, see concept 12.3.3. (data availability).
3.9. Base period
The base year for the unit Purchasing Power Standard (PPS) and PPS per inhabitant at constant prices is currently 2005. All calculations of non-basic unit (national currencies) are done by Eurostat.
R&D expenditure is published in the following units: Euro (MIO_EUR) and Euro per inhabitant (EUR_HAB); data are available in the following units: basic unit National currency (MIO_NAC); Purchasing Power Standard (MIO_PPS); Purchasing Power Standard at 2005 prices (MIO_PPS_KP05); Purchasing Power Standard per inhabitant at constant 2005 prices (PPS_HAB_KP05); Percentage of gross domestic product (PC_GDP); and Percentage of total R&D expenditure (PC_TOT - for the breakdown by source of funds).
R&D personnel data are published in full-time equivalent (FTE), in head count (HC), as a percentage of total employment and as a percentage of active population.
Calendar year 2023.
6.1. Institutional Mandate - legal acts and other agreements
See below.
6.1.1. European legislation
Legal acts / agreements:
Since the beginning of 2021, the collection of R&D statistics is based on the Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) No 2020/1197 of 30 July 2020 laying down technical specifications and arrangements pursuant to Regulation (EU) 2019/2152 of the European Parliament and of the Council on European business statistics repealing 10 legal acts in the field of business statistics. Regulation No 2020/1197 sets the framework for the collection of R&D statistics and specifies the main variables of interest and their breakdowns at predefined level of detail. The transmission of R&D data is mandatory for Member States and EEA countries.
The Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) No 2012/995 concerning the production and development of Community statistics on science and technology was in force until the end of 2020.
6.1.2. National legislation
| Existence of R&D specific statistical legislation | No, the production of national R&D statistics is governed by the general national statistical legislation. |
|---|---|
| Are respondents obliged by the national law to provide raw and administrative data: | Yes. |
6.1.3. Standards and manuals
- Frascati Manual 2015, Guidelines for Collecting and Reporting Data on Research and Experimental Development
- EBS Methodological Manual on R&D Statistics
6.2. Institutional Mandate - data sharing
Not requested.
7.1. Confidentiality - policy
A property of data indicating the extent to which their unauthorised disclosure could be prejudicial or harmful to the interest of the source or other relevant parties.
At the level of the ESS, the EU regulation 223/2009 on European statistics defines confidential data as data which allows statistical units (respondents) to be identified, either directly - by formal identifiers such as respondents’ names, addresses, identification numbers - or indirectly - by using a combination of variables or characteristics such as age, gender, education - thereby disclosing individual information (see Article 2(1)(e) of regulation 223/2009).
At national level:
- Confidentiality protection required by law: Unit level data on persons, households and enterprises are confidential. However, data on the government sector organisations are in principle not confidential.
- Confidentiality commitments of survey staff: As specified in the Statistics Act and it's implementation in Statistics Finland.
7.2. Confidentiality - data treatment
Number of respondents, dominance.
Basic confidentiality rule for a NACE class for example is at least three units reporting R&D activity.
As for the dominance, confidentiality is analyzed by each published breakdown, but exact rules of the process are not published.
8.1. Release calendar
Publicly available release calendar.
8.2. Release calendar access
At Eurostat level this is: Release calendar - Eurostat (europa.eu)
Statistics Finaland: Statistics Finland Future Releases
8.3. Release policy - user access
Open access to publication and databases on the website of Statistics Finland. Release information for users by standard protocols of Statistics Finland.
At Eurostat level the frequency of R&D data dissemination is yearly for provisional and final data.
Annual R&D statistics release by Statistics Finland.
10.1. Dissemination format - News release
Please see the sub-concepts 10.1 to 10.5 in the full metadata view.
10.1.1. Availability of the releases
| Availability (Y/N)1) | Links | |
|---|---|---|
| Regular releases | Y | |
| Ad-hoc releases | N |
1) Y - Yes, N – No
10.2. Dissemination format - Publications
See below.
10.2.1. Availability of means of dissemination
| Means of dissemination | Availability (Y/N)1) | Links |
|---|---|---|
| General publication/article | Y | |
| Specific paper publication (e.g. sectoral provided to enterprises) | N |
1) Y – Yes, N - No
10.3. Dissemination format - online database
10.3.1. Data tables - consultations
Not requested.
10.4. Dissemination format - microdata access
As Eurostat receives no R&D micro-data from the reporting countries, users should contact directly the respective national statistical institute (NSI) for access to the micro-data.
10.4.1. Provisions affecting the access
| Access rights to micro-data | On the basis of written agreement with the Research services unit of Statistics Finaland. |
|---|---|
| Access cost policy | According to the practice of the Research services unit. |
| Micro-data anonymisation rules | According to the practice of the Research services unit. |
10.5. Dissemination format - other
See below.
10.5.1. Metadata - consultations
Not requested.
10.5.2. Availability of other dissemination means
| Dissemination means | Availability (Y/N)1) | Micro-data / Aggregate figures | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|
| Internet: main results available on the national statistical authority’s website | Y | Aggregate figures. | |
| Data prepared for individual ad hoc requests | Y | Aggregate figures. | |
| Other | N |
1) Y – Yes, N - No
10.6. Documentation on methodology
Statistics Documentation on Methodology
10.6.1. Metadata completeness - rate
Not requested.
10.7. Quality management - documentation
Please see the sub-concept 10.7.1 in the full metadata view.
10.7.1. Documentation and users’ requests
| Type(s) of data accompanying information available (metadata, graphs, quality reports, etc.) | Research and development: documentation of statistics | Statistics Finland |
|---|---|
| Requests on further clarification, most problematic issues | Occasional discussions with users on different topics. |
11.1. Quality assurance
At Eurostat level, the common quality framework of the European Statistical System (ESS) is composed of the European Statistics Code of Practice, the Quality Assurance Framework of the ESS, and the general quality management principles (such as continuous interaction with users, continuous improvement, integration, and harmonisation).
Statistics Finland: Information on Statistical Definitions
11.2. Quality management - assessment
Relevance: national user needs and Eurostat data requests are fullfilled.
Accuracy: use of complete business register, public R&D funding and R&D tax support. High response rate of the most important R&D eneterprises, robust statistical estimation methods.
Timeliness and punctuality: deadlines of national releases and Eurostat data transmissions respected.
Coherence and comparability: Frascati manual guidelines followed, standard international classifications applied.
12.1. Relevance - User Needs
Please see the sub-concept 12.1.1 in the full metadata view.
12.1.1. Needs at national level
| Users’ class1) | Description of users | Users’ needs |
|---|---|---|
| 1- Institutions |
The European Commission, OECD, other international organisations. National level: ministries and other government agencies. |
Data and statistics used for international comparisons. Statistics used for the follow up of the development and for policy purposes. |
| 2- Social actors |
Employers’ associations, Trade unions etc. |
Statistics used for the follow up of the development and for their specific issues. |
| 3- Media | Magazines and newspapers, social media. |
Statistics used for the information on the |
| 4- Researchers and students |
Researchers and research institutes, students. |
Need for the statistics and analyses, need for the access to data. |
1) Users' class codification
1- Institutions:
- European level: Commission (DGs, Secretariat General), Council, European Parliament, ECB, other European agencies etc.
- in Member States, at the national or regional level: Ministries of Economy or Finance, other ministries (for sectoral comparisons), National Statistical Institutes and other statistical agencies (norms, training, etc.), and
- International organisations: OECD, UN, IMF, ILO, etc.
2- Social actors: Employers’ associations, trade unions, lobbies, among others, at the European, national or regional level.
3- Media: International or regional media – specialized or for the general public – interested both in figures and analyses or comments. The media are the main channels of statistics to the general public.
4- Researchers and students (Researchers and students need statistics, analyses, ad hoc services, access to specific data.)
5- Enterprises or businesses (Either for their own market analysis, their marketing strategy (large enterprises) or because they offer consultancy services)
6- Other (User class defined for national purposes, different from the previous classes. )
12.2. Relevance - User Satisfaction
To evaluate if users' needs have been satisfied, the best way is to use user satisfaction surveys.
12.2.1. National Surveys and feedback
| Conduction of a user satisfaction survey or any other type of monitoring user satisfaction | Statistics Finland monitors user satisfaction. |
|---|---|
| User satisfaction survey specific for R&D statistics | Specific satisfaction surveys in the field of R&D statistics are not conducted but instead there are meetings and other frequent contacts with the national key STI policy experts and researchers to gather feedback. |
| Short description of the feedback received | Occasional requests for more detailed breakdowns (for example by NACE, regional breakdowns). |
12.3. Completeness
Please see the sub-concept 12.3.2 in the full metadata view.
12.3.1. Data completeness - rate
All data requested by the EBS regulation are produced. 100% completeness
12.3.2. Completeness - overview
Completeness is assessed via comparison of the data delivered against the requirements of Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) No 2020/1197.
| Reasons for missing cells | |
|---|---|
| Preliminary variables | Not applicable. |
| Obligatory data on R&D expenditure | Not applicable. |
| Optional data on R&D expenditure | Resource constraints. |
| Obligatory data on R&D personnel | Not applicable. |
| Optional data on R&D personnel | Resource constraints. |
| Regional data on R&D expenditure and R&D personnel | Not applicable. |
12.3.3. Data availability
See below.
12.3.3.1. Data availability - R&D Expenditure
| Availability1) | Frequency of data collection | Gap years – years with missing data | Changes - Description | Changes - Year of introduction | Changes - Reasons | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Source of funds | Y-1971 | Until 1997 biennial, as from 1997 annual data. |
||||
| Type of R&D | Y-2011 | Annual. | ||||
| Type of costs | Y-1971 | Until 1997 biennial, as from 1997 annual data. |
||||
| Socioeconomic objective | N | |||||
| Region | Y-1973 | Until 1997 biennial, as from 1997 annual data. |
||||
| FORD | Y-1971, end 1983 |
Biennial, until 1983. |
||||
| Type of institution | Y-2021 | Annual. |
1) Y-start year, N – data not available
12.3.3.2. Data availability - R&D Personnel (HC)
| Availability1) | Frequency of data collection | Gap years – years with missing data | Changes - Description | Changes - Year of introduction | Changes - Reasons | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sex | Y-1987 | Until 1997 biennial, as from 1997 annual data. |
||||
| Function | Y-2004 | Annual. | ||||
| Qualification | Y-1971 | Until 1997 biennial, as from 1997 annual data. |
||||
| Age | N | |||||
| Citizenship | N | |||||
| Region | Y-1995 | Until 1997 biennial, as from 1997 annual data. |
||||
| FORD | Y-1971, end 1983 |
Biennial until 1983. |
||||
| Type of institution | N | |||||
| Economic activity | Y-1971 | Until 1997 biennial, as from 1997 annual data. |
||||
| Product field | N | |||||
| Employment size class | Y-1971 | Until 1997 biennial, as from 1997 annual data. |
1) Y-start year, N – data not available
12.3.3.3. Data availability - R&D Personnel (FTE)
| Availability1) | Frequency of data collection | Gap years – years with missing data | Changes - Description | Changes - Year of introduction | Changes - Reasons | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sex | N | |||||
| Function | Y-2004 | Annual. | ||||
| Qualification | Y-1971 | Until 1997 biennial, as from 1997 annual data. |
||||
| Age | N | |||||
| Citizenship | N | |||||
| Region | Y-1995 | Until 1997 biennial, as from 1997 annual data. |
||||
| FORD | Y-1971, end 1983 |
Biennial until 1983. | ||||
| Type of institution | N | |||||
| Economic activity | Y-1971 | Until 1997 biennial, as from 1997 annual data. |
||||
| Product field | N | |||||
| Employment size class | Y-1971 | Until 1997 biennial, as from 1997 annual data. |
1) Y-start year, N – data not available
12.3.3.4. Data availability - other
| Additional dimension/variable available at national level1) | Availability2) | Frequency of data collection | Breakdown variables | Combinations of breakdown variables | Level of detail |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
|
|||||
1) This question is optional. It refers to variables and breakdowns NOT asked by the Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) No 2020/1197 (neither as 'optional'), if R&D data for BES are collected for additional breakdowns or/and at more detailed level than requested.
2) Y-start year
12.3.3.5. R&D personnel - Cross-classification by function and qualification (if available in FTE and HC)
| Cross-classification | Unit | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Not available | ||
13.1. Accuracy - overall
Accuracy in the statistical sense denotes the closeness of computations or estimates to the exact or true values. Statistics are not equal with the true values because of variability (the statistics change from implementation to implementation of the survey due to random effects) and bias (the average of the possible values of the statistics from implementation to implementation is not equal to the true value due to systematic effects).
Several types of statistical errors occur during the survey process. The following typology of errors has been adopted:
- Sampling errors. These only affect sample surveys. They are due to the fact that only a subset of the population, usually randomly selected, is enumerated.
- Non-sampling errors. Non-sampling errors affect sample surveys and complete enumerations alike and comprise:
-
- Coverage errors,
- Measurement errors,
- Non response errors and
- Processing errors.
Model assumption errors should be treated under the heading of the respective error they are trying to reduce.
13.1.1. Accuracy - Overall by 'Types of Error'
| Sampling errors1) | Non-sampling errors1) | Model-assumption Errors1) | Perceived direction of the error2) | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Coverage errors | Measurement errors | Processing errors | Non- response errors | ||||
| Total intramural R&D expenditure | Not applicable. |
4 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 5 | +/- |
| Total R&D personnel in FTE | Not applicable. |
4 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 5 | +/- |
| Researchers in FTE | Not applicable. |
4 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 5 | +/- |
1) Ranking of the type(s) of errors that result in over/under-estimation, from the most important source of error (1) to the least important source of error (6). If errors of a particular type do not exist, the sign ‘:‘ is used.
2) The perceived direction of the ‘overall’ error using the signs “+” for over estimation, “-” for under estimation and “+/-” when assumption of the direction of the error cannot be made for R&D.
13.1.2. Assessment of the accuracy with regard to the main indicators
| Indicators | 5 (Very Good)1) |
4 (Good)2) |
3 (Satisfactory)3) |
2 (Poor)4) |
1 (Very poor)5) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total intramural R&D expenditure | X | ||||
| Total R&D personnel in FTE | X | ||||
| Researchers in FTE | X |
1) 'Very Good' = High level of coverage (annual rate of substitution in the target population lower than 5%). High average rates of response (>80%) in census and sample surveys (BES R&D). Full data consistency with reference to totals and relationships between variables in the dataset sent to Eurostat.
2) 'Good' = If at least one out of the three criteria described above is not fully met.
3) 'Satisfactory' = If the average rate of response is lower than 60% even by meeting the two remaining criteria.
4) 'Poor' = If the average rate of response is lower than 60% and at least one of the two remaining criteria is not met.
5) 'Very Poor' = If all the three criteria are not met.
13.2. Sampling error
That part of the difference between a population value and an estimate thereof, derived from a random sample, which is due to the fact that only a subset of the population is enumerated.
13.2.1. Sampling error - indicators
See below.
13.2.1.1. Variance Estimation Method
Not applicable.
13.2.1.2. Confidence interval for key variables by NACE
| Industry sector1) | Services sector2) | TOTAL | |
|---|---|---|---|
| R&D expenditure | Not applicable. |
Not applicable. |
Not applicable. |
| R&D personnel (FTE) | Not applicable. |
Not applicable. | Not applicable. |
1) Industry sector (NACE Rev. 2: 01-03, 05-09, 10-33, 35, 36-39, 41-43)
2) Services sector (NACE Rev 2.: 45-47, 49-53, 55-56, 58-63, 64-66, 68, 69-75, 77-82, 84, 85, 86-88, 90-93, 94-96, 97-98, 99)
13.2.1.3. Confidence interval for key variables by Size Class
| 0-9 employees and self-employed persons (optional) | 10-49 employees and self-employed persons | 50-249 employees and self-employed persons | 250- and more employees and self-employed persons | TOTAL | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| R&D expenditure | Not applicable. |
Not applicable. |
Not applicable. |
Not applicable. |
Not applicable. |
| R&D personnel (FTE) | Not applicable. |
Not applicable. |
Not applicable. |
Not applicable. |
Not applicable. |
13.3. Non-sampling error
Non-sampling errors occur in all phases of a survey. They add to the sampling errors (if present) and contribute to decreasing overall accuracy. It is important to assess their relative weight in the total error and devote appropriate resources for their control and assessment.
13.3.1. Coverage error
Coverage errors (or frame errors) are due to divergences between the target population and the frame population. The frame population is the set of target population members that has a chance to be selected into the survey sample. It is a listing of all items in the population from which the sample is drawn that contains contact details as well as sufficient information to perform stratification and sampling.
a) Description/assessment of coverage errors:
As the method is a panel of R&D performing firms based on the high quality official business register this is very minor issue.
b) Measures taken to reduce their effect:
Very minor issue - no measures needed.
13.3.1.1. Over-coverage - rate
Not requested.
13.3.1.2. Common units - proportion
Not requested.
13.3.1.3. Frame misclassification rate
Misclassification rate measures the percentage of enterprises that changed stratum between the time the frame was last updated and the time the survey was carried out. It is defined as the number of enterprises that changed stratum divided by the number of enterprises which belong to the stratum, according to the frame. The rate can be estimated based on the characteristics of the surveyed enterprises.
| By size class for the Industry Sector (NACE Rev. 2: 01-03, 05-09, 10-33, 35, 36-39, 41-43) | 0-9 employees and self-employed persons (optional) | 10-49 employees and self-employed persons | 50-249 employees and self-employed persons | 250-and more employees and self-employed persons | TOTAL |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Number or surveyed enterprises in the stratum (according to frame) | Not applicable. |
||||
| Number of surveyed enterprises that have changed stratum (after inspection of their characteristics) | Not applicable. |
||||
| Misclassification rate | Not applicable. |
||||
| By size class for the Services Sector (NACE Rev 2.: 45-47, 49-53, 55-56, 58-63, 64-66 68, 69-75, 77-82, 84, 85, 86-88, 90-93, 94-96, 97-98, 99) | 0-9 employees and self-employed persons (optional) | 10-49 employees and self-employed persons | 50-249 employees and self-employed persons | 250-and more employees and self-employed persons | TOTAL |
| Number or surveyed enterprises in the stratum (according to frame) | Not applicable. | ||||
| Number of surveyed enterprises that have changed stratum (after inspection of their characteristics) | Not applicable. |
||||
| Misclassification rate | Not applicable.
|
13.3.2. Measurement error
Measurement errors occur during data collection and generate bias by recording values different than the true ones (e.g. difficulty to distinguish intramural from extramural R&D Expenditure). The survey questionnaire used for data collection may have led to the recording of wrong values, or there may be respondent or interviewer bias.
- Description/assessment of measurement errors: Not known, assumed to be small
- Measures taken to reduce their effect: Detailed instructions accompany the survey questionnaire, respondent support by phone and email. The online questionnaire assists the respondent by alerting errors, such as logical inconsistencies and missing items. Responses of the most important R&D performers analysed in detail.
13.3.3. Non response error
Non-response occurs when a survey failed to collect data on all survey variables from all the population units designated for data collection in a sample or complete enumeration.
There are two elements of non-response:
- Unit non-response, which occurs when no data (or so little as to be unusable) are collected on a designated population unit.
- Item non-response, which occurs when data only on some, but not all survey variables are collected on a designated population unit.
The extent of response (and accordingly of non response) is also measured with response rates.
13.3.3.1. Unit non-response - rate
The main interest is to judge if the response from the target population was satisfying by computing the weighted and un-weighted response rate.
Definition: Eligible are the sample units which indeed belong to the target population. Frame imperfections always leave the possibility that some sampled units may not belong to the target population. Moreover, when there is no contact with sample units and no other way to establish their eligibility they are characterised as ‘unknown eligibility units’
Definition:
- Un-weighted Unit Non- Response Rate = [1 - (Number of units with a response) / (Total number of eligible and unknown eligibility units in the survey)] * 100
- Weighted Unit Non- Response Rate = [1 - (Total weighted responding units) / (Total weighted number of eligible / unknown eligibility units in the sample)] * 100
13.3.3.1.1. Unit non-response rates by Size Class
| 0-9 employees and self-employed persons (optional) | 10-49 employees and self-employed persons | 50-249 employees and self-employed persons | 250-and more employees and self-employed persons | TOTAL | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Number of units with a response in the realised sample | 722 | 1749 | 1407 | 544 | 4422 |
| Total number of units in the sample | 1126 | 2725 | 2040 | 716 | 6607 |
| Unit Non-response rate (un-weighted) | 35,9% | 35,8% | 31,0% | 24,0% | 33,1% |
| Unit Non-response rate (weighted) |
13.3.3.1.2. Unit non-response rates by NACE
| Industry1) | Services2) | TOTAL | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Number of units with a response in the realised sample | 1595 | 2827 | 4422 |
| Total number of units in the sample | 2327 | 4280 | 6607 |
| Unit Non-response rate (un-weighted) | 31,5% | 34,0% | 33,1% |
| Unit Non-response rate (weighted) |
1) Industry (NACE Rev. 2: 01-03, 05-09,10-33,35,36-39,41-43)
2) Services (NACE Rev 2.: 45-47, 49-53, 55-56, 58-63, 64-66 68, 69-75, 77-82, 84, 85, 86-88, 90-93, 94-96, 97-98, 99)
13.3.3.1.3. Recalls/Reminders description
Two reminders (letters). Largest missing units contacted also by e-mail or phone.
13.3.3.1.4. Unit non-response survey
| Conduction of a non-response survey | No such survey conducted |
|---|---|
| Selection of the sample of non-respondents | Not applicable |
| Data collection method employed | Not applicable |
| Response rate of this type of survey | Not applicable |
| The main reasons of non-response identified | Response burden |
13.3.3.2. Item non-response - rate
Definition: Un-weighted Item non-Response Rate (%) = [1-(Number of units with a response for the item) / (Total number of eligible , for the item, units in the sample)] * 100
13.3.3.2.1. Un-weighted item non-response rate
| R&D Expenditure | R&D Personnel (FTE) | Researchers (FTE) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Item non-response rate (un-weighted) (%) | 1,1% | 5,4% | 9,9% |
| Imputation (Y/N) | Y | Y | Y |
| If imputed, describe method used, mentioning which auxiliary information or stratification is used | a) Response t-1; b) estimated price of the FTE; c) average distribution of the NACE class (ratio imputation). |
a) Response t-1; b) estimated price of the FTE; c) average distribution of the NACE class (ratio imputation). |
a) Response t-1; b) estimated price of the FTE; c) average distribution of the NACE class (ratio imputation). At least 0,1 researcher FTE is required. |
13.3.3.3. Magnitude of errors due to non-response
| Magnitude of error (%) due to non-response | |
|---|---|
| Total intramural R&D expenditure | Assumed very small (the R&D panel captures the most important R&D performers) |
| Total R&D personnel in FTE | Assumed very small (the R&D panel captures the most important R&D performers) |
| Researchers in FTE | Assumed very small (the R&D panel captures the most important R&D performers) |
13.3.4. Processing error
Between data collection and the beginning of statistical analysis, data must undergo a certain processing: coding, data entry, data editing, imputation, etc. Errors introduced at these stages are called processing errors. Data editing identifies inconsistencies or errors in the data.
13.3.4.1. Identification of the main processing errors
| Data entry method applied | Electronic online questionnaire. |
|---|---|
| Estimates of data entry errors | Not applicable. Respondents fill the online questionnaire, which guides the respondents. No manual data entry by Statistics Finland. |
| Variables for which coding was performed | Not applicable. Online questionnaire, no coding: for example, respondent selects regions in which R&D is performed from the list provided. |
| Estimates of coding errors | Not applicable. |
| Editing process and method | Automatic and manual editing based on the lists of errors due to logical checks and missing values. Largest R&D performers handled like case-studies. |
| Procedure used to correct errors | Not applicable. |
13.3.5. Model assumption error
Not requested.
14.1. Timeliness
Timeliness and punctuality refer to time and dates, but in a different manner: the timeliness of statistics reflects the length of time between their availability and the event or phenomenon they describe. Punctuality refers to the time lag between the release date of the data and the target date on which they should have been delivered, with reference to dates announced in the official release calendar.
14.1.1. Time lag - first result
Time lag between the end of reference period and the release date of the results:
Indicator: (Release date of provisional/ first results) - (Date of reference for the data)
- End of reference period: 31 December 2023
- Date of first release of national data: 24 October 2024
- Lag (days): 300
14.1.2. Time lag - final result
- End of reference period: 31 December 2023
- Date of first release of national data: 24 October 2024
- Lag (days): 300
14.2. Punctuality
Punctuality refers to the time lag between the release date of data and the target date on which they were scheduled for release as announced officially.
14.2.1. Punctuality - delivery and publication
Punctuality of time schedule of data release = (Actual date of the data release) - (Scheduled date of the data release).
14.2.1.1. Deadline and date of data transmission
| Transmission of provisional data | Transmission of final data | |
|---|---|---|
| Legally defined deadline of data transmission (T+_ months) | Final data transmitted T+10. |
Final data transmitted T+10. |
| Actual date of transmission of the data (T+x months) | Final data transmitted T+10. |
Final data transmitted T+10. |
| Delay (days) | Not applicable. |
Not applicable. |
| Reasoning for delay | Not applicable. | Not applicable. |
15.1. Comparability - geographical
This sub-concept refers to the geographical comparability of data among the 27 Member States and the EFTA and Candidate Countries.
15.1.1. Asymmetry for mirror flow statistics - coefficient
Not requested.
15.1.2. General issues of comparability
No deviations from the Frascati manual or other international guidelines.
15.1.3. Survey Concepts Issues
The following table lists a number of key survey concepts and conceptual issues; it gives reference to the Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) No 2020/1197 or Frascati manual (FM) and EBS Methodological Manual on R&D Statistics paragraphs with recommendations about these concepts / issues.
| Concept / Issues | Reference to recommendations | Deviation from recommendations | Comments on national definition / Treatment – deviations from recommendations |
|---|---|---|---|
| R&D personnel | FM2015 Chapter 5 (mainly sub-chapter 5.2). | No | |
| Researcher | FM2015, §5.35-5.39. | No | |
| Approach to obtaining Headcount (HC) data | FM2015, §5.58-5.61 (in combination with Eurostat's EBS Methodological Manual on R&D Statistics). | No | |
| Approach to obtaining Full-time equivalence (FTE) data | FM2015, §5.49-5.57 (in combination with Eurostat’s EBS Methodological Manual on R&D Statistics). | No | |
| Reporting data according to formula: Total R&D personnel = Internal R&D personnel + External R&D personnel | FM2015, §5.25 | Internal R&D personnel. | Pilot data on the total external personel FTEs by the main sectors available. Respondents are not able to provide more detailed data and also on the total level high item-nonresponse. |
| Intramural R&D expenditure | FM2015 Chapter 4 (mainly sub-chapter 4.2). | No | |
| Special treatment for NACE 72 enterprises | FM2015, § 7.59. | No | |
| Statistical unit | FM2015 Chapter 7 (mainly paragraphs 7.3 and 7.7 in combination with Eurostat's EBS Methodological Manual on R&D Statistics). | No | |
| Target population | FM2015 Chapter 7 (mainly sub-chapter 7.7 in combination with Eurostat's EBS Methodological Manual on R&D Statistics). | No | |
| Identification of not known R&D performing or supposed to perform R&D enterprises | FM2015 Chapter 7 (mainly sub-chapter 7.7 in combination with Eurostat's EBS Methodological Manual on R&D Statistics). | No | |
| Sector coverage | FM2015 Chapter 3 (mainly sub-chapter 3.5) in combination with Eurostat's EBS Methodological Manual on R&D Statistics). | No | |
| NACE coverage and breakdown | Reg. 2020/1197 : Annex 1, Table 18 | No | |
| Enterprise size coverage and breakdown | Reg. 2020/1197 : Annex 1, Table 18 | No | |
| Reference period for the main data | Reg. 2020/1197 : Annex 1, Table 18 | No | |
| Reference period for all data | Reg. 2020/1197 : Annex 1, Table 18 | No |
15.1.4. Deviations from recommendations
The following table lists a number of key methodological issues, which may affect the international comparability of national R&D statistics. The table gives the references in the Frascati manual (FM), where related recommendations are made. Countries are asked to report on the existence of any deviations from existing recommendations and comment upon.
| Methodological issues | Reference to recommendations | Deviation from recommendations | Comments on national treatment / treatment deviations from recommendations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Data collection preparation activities | FM2015 Chapter 7 (mainly sub-chapter 7.7). | No | |
| Data collection method | FM2015 Chapter 7 (mainly sub-chapter 7.7). | No | |
| Cooperation with respondents | FM2015 Chapter 7 (mainly sub-chapter 7.7). | No | |
| Follow-up of non-respondents | FM2015 Chapter 7 (mainly sub-chapter 7.7). | No | |
| Data processing methods | FM2015 Chapter 6 (mainly sub-chapter 6.7). | No | |
| Treatment of non-response | FM2015 Chapter 6 (mainly sub-chapter 6.7). | No | |
| Data weighting | FM2015 Chapter 7 (mainly sub-chapter 7.7). | No | |
| Variance estimation | FM2015 Chapter 6 (mainly sub-chapter 6.9). | No | |
| Data compilation of final and preliminary data | Reg. 2020/1197 : Annex 1, Table 18 | No | |
| Survey type | FM2015 Chapter 6 (mainly sub-chapter 6.4). | No | |
| Sample design | FM2015 Chapter 6 (mainly sub-chapter 6.4). | No | |
| Survey questionnaire | FM2015 Chapter 6 (mainly sub-chapter 6.4). | No |
15.2. Comparability - over time
For more information related to the break years and the nature of the breaks, see the following sub-concepts in the full metadata view.
15.2.1. Length of comparable time series
See below.
15.2.2. Breaks in time series
| Length of comparable time series | Break years1 | Nature of the breaks | |
|---|---|---|---|
| R&D personnel (HC) | National R&D statistics published as from 1971. |
2008, |
2008: implementation of Nace Rev.2, some regrouping of industries but no impact on the total figures. 1995: implementation of the Nace-classification, some regrouping of industries. Classification changes have had no impact on the total figures. |
| Function | From 2004 onwards. | Data available 2004 onwards by breakdown: researches; other |
|
| Qualification | From 1971 onwards. | 2015, 2004, 1987 |
Minor updates of the breakdown of R&D personnel by formal qualification. No important impact on the indicators by ISCED-classification. |
| R&D personnel (FTE) | National R&D statistics published as from 1971. |
2008, |
2008: implementation of Nace Rev.2, some regrouping of industries but no impact on the total figures. 1995: implementation of the Nace-classification, some regrouping of industries. Classification changes have had no impact on the total figures. |
| Function | From 2004 onwards. |
Data available 2004 onwards by breakdown: researches; other |
|
| Qualification | From 1971 onwards. |
Minor updates of the breakdown of R&D personnel by formal qualification. No important impact on the indicators by ISCED-classification. |
|
| R&D expenditure | National R&D statistics published as from 1971. |
2008, |
2008: implementation of Nace Rev.2, some regrouping of industries but no impact on the total figures. 1995: implementation of the Nace-classification, some regrouping of industries. Classification changes have had no impact on the total figures. |
| Source of funds | 2005, 1998 |
As from 2005 for the source of funds from abroad category Foreign enterprises within the same group / Other foreign enterprises was re-introduced (breakdown was not used 1999-2004). |
|
| Type of costs | 2004 |
2004: distribution of acquired services, other current costs and investments not comparable to other years, wages and total BERD comparable. |
|
| Type of R&D | From 2011 onwards. | ||
| Other |
1) Breaks years are years for which data are not fully comparable to the previous period.
15.2.3. Collection of data in the even years
Full data produced annually.
15.3. Coherence - cross domain
This part deals with any national coherence assessments which may have been undertaken. It reports results for variables which are the same or relevant to R&D statistics, from other national surveys and / or administrative sources and explains and comments on their degree of agreement with R&D statistics. Intramural R & D expenditure (code 230101 in the Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2020/1197) and R & D personnel (code 230201) are surveyed also in foreign-controlled EU enterprises statistics (inward FATS).
The Community innovation survey also collects the R&D expenditure of enterprises that form the coverage of the CIS survey.
15.3.1. Coherence - sub annual and annual statistics
Not requested.
15.3.2. Coherence - National Accounts
According to the FM. R&D data are used in the SNA.
15.3.3. National Coherence Assessments
| Variable name | R&D Statistics - Variable Value | Other national statistics - Variable value | Other national statistics - Source | Difference in values (of R&D statistics) | Explanation of / comments on difference |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| R&D expenditure NACE B,C,D,E Year 2022 | 3381 (Million EUR) | 3291 (Million EUR) | Community Innovation Survey (CIS) |
-90 (Million EUR) | Small difference due to different estimation. R&D is a panel survey (covers also R&D enterprises in the size-class 1-9 persons employed). CIS is a sample survey 10+ persons emploeyd. |
| R&D expenditure | Foreign-controlled EU enterprises – inward FATS |
Difference due to different estimation (treatment of weights). | |||
15.4. Coherence - internal
Please see the sub-concepts 15.4.1 and 15.4.2 in the full metadata view.
15.4.1. Comparison between preliminary and final data
This part compares key R&D variables as preliminary and final data.
| Total R&D expenditure (in 1000 of national currency) | Total R&D personnel (in FTEs) | Total number of researchers (in FTEs) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Preliminary data (delivered at T+10) | Not applicable, final data only. |
Not applicable, final data only. | Not applicable, final data only. |
| Final data (delivered T+18) | |||
| Difference (of final data) | Not applicable, final data only. | Not applicable, final data only. | Not applicable, final data only. |
Comments :
....
15.4.2. Consistency between R&D personnel and expenditure
| Average remuneration per year (cost in national currency) | Explanation of consistency issues if any | |
|---|---|---|
| Consistency between FTEs of internal R&D personnel and R&D labour costs (1) | EUR 74 142 | |
| Consistency between FTEs of external R&D personnel and other current costs for external R&D personnel (2) | Not available. |
(1) Calculate the average remuneration (cost) of individuals belonging to the internal R&D personnel, excluding those who are only formally ‘employees’ (university students, grant holders, etc.).
(2) Calculate the average remuneration (cost) of individuals belonging to the external R&D personnel (FTEs/other current R&D costs for external R&D personnel).
The assessment of costs associated with a statistical product is a rather complicated task since there must exist a mechanism for appointing portions of shared costs (for instance shared IT resources and dissemination channels) and overheads (office space, utility bills etc). The assessment must become detailed and clear enough so that international comparisons among agencies of different structures are feasible.
16.1. Costs summary
| Costs for the statistical authority (in national currency) | Cost for the NSI in time use / person / day | |
|---|---|---|
| Staff costs | Not available. | Not available. |
| Data collection costs | Not available. | Not available. |
| Other costs | Not available. | Not available. |
| Total costs | Not available. | Not available. |
The shares of the figures given in the first column that are accounted for by payments to private firms or other Government agencies.
Comments on costs :
....
16.2. Components of burden and description of how these estimates were reached
| Value | Computation method | |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Respondents (R) | Not available. | |
| Average Time required to complete the questionnaire in hours (T)1 | Not available. | |
| Average hourly cost (in national currency) of a respondent (C) | Not available. | |
| Total cost | Not available. |
1) T = the time required to provide the information, including time spent assembling information prior to completing a form or taking part in interview and the time taken up by any subsequent contacts after receipt of the questionnaire (‘re-contact time’)
17.1. Data revision - policy
Not requested.
17.2. Data revision - practice
Not requested.
17.2.1. Data revision - average size
Not requested.
18.1. Source data
Several separate activities are used for the collection of raw data or pre-compiled administrative data and statistics related to R&D. This section collects information on the type of data collection instruments used as well as methodological information for each data collection instrument. Depending on the type of data collection instrument used, only the sections corresponding to that data collection instrument are filled in.
18.1.1. Data source – general information
The survey is Business Enterprise Research and Development, which is combination of census/panel and small survey to update the panel. The R&D panel captures some 95-97% of the BES R&D volume.
The survey is launched annually in April; the collection phase is considered to be completed by August; results are available in October.
.
18.1.2. Sample/census survey information
| Sampling unit | Legal unit, however final results are produced on the level of statistical unit enterprise. |
|---|---|
| Stratification variables (if any - for sample surveys only) | Size-class, Nace. Even though R&D panel is used, stratification is useful in the estimation. |
| Stratification variable classes | Size-class: 0-9 (R&D panel only), 10-19, 20-49, 50-99 (panel+sample updating the panel), 100+ (census). |
| Population size | Sampling frame 20596, R&D panel 3294 |
| Planned sample size | 6887, R&D panel 3294, sample 3593. |
| Sample selection mechanism (for sample surveys only) | SRS for sample updating the R&D panel. |
| Survey frame | Business enterpise register of Statistics Finland. |
| Sample design | R&D panel an sample to update the panel (sample has a minor impact on the R&D figures). |
| Sample size | 6887, R&D panel 3294, sample 3593. |
| Survey frame quality | Official Business register. |
| Variables the survey contributes to | R&D variables. |
18.1.3. Information on collection of administrative data or of pre-compiled statistics
| Source | |
|---|---|
| Description of collected data / statistics | Not applicable. |
| Reference period, in relation to the variables the administrative source contributes to | Not applicable. |
| Variables the administrative source contributes to | Not applicable. |
18.2. Frequency of data collection
See 12.3.3.
18.3. Data collection
Please see the sub-concepts 18.3.1 and 18.3.2 in the full metadata view.
18.3.1. Data collection overview
| Realised sample size (per stratum) | 6803 (84 units had closed down their activities since the last update of the register or were unable to answer). |
|---|---|
| Mode of data collection | Online questionnaire. |
| Incentives used for increasing response | Reminding letters, other contacts to the respondents. |
| Follow-up of non-respondents | The most important non-respondents contacted by email or phone. |
| Replacement of non-respondents (e.g. if proxy interviewing is employed) | Not applicable. |
| Response rate (ratio of completed "interviews" over total number of eligible enterprises or enterprises of unknown eligibility) | 67,0% |
| Non-response analysis (if applicable -- also see section 18.5.4 Data compilation - Weighting and Estimation methods) | Not applicable. |
18.3.2. Questionnaire and other documents
| Annex | Name of the file |
|---|---|
| R&D national questionnaire and explanatory notes in English: | FI_BERD_questionnaire_English |
| R&D national questionnaire and explanatory notes in the national language: | FI_BERD_questionnaire_Finnish; FI_BERD_explanatory_notes_Finnish |
| Other relevant documentation of national methodology in English: | Not available |
| Other relevant documentation of national methodology in the national language: | Not available |
Annexes:
FI BERD questionnaire 2023
FI BERD questionnaire in Finnish
FI BERD explanatory notes in Finnish
18.4. Data validation
1) comparison of the responses against the previous year, checking any inconsistencies with particular attention to the large R&D performers
2) checking the outliers in respect to overall distributions
3) micro editing based on the logical rules
4) macro level checks for any inconsistencies in the tabulations
18.5. Data compilation
See below.
18.5.1. Imputation - rate
Imputation is the method of creating plausible (but artificial) substitute values for all those missing.
Definition:
Imputation rate (for the variable x) % = (Number of imputed records for the variable x) * 100 / (Total number of possible records for x)
18.5.1.1. Imputation rate by Size class
| Size class | R&D Expenditure | R&D personnel (FTE) | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Unweighted | Weighted | Unweighted | Weighted | |
| 0-9 employees and self-employed persons (optional) | 5,4% | % | 7,3% | % |
| 10-49 employees and self-employed persons | 8,1% | % | 10,7% | % |
| 50-249 employees and self-employed persons | 6,1% | % | 9,6% | % |
| 250-and more employees and self-employed persons | 8,1% | % | 12,2% | % |
| TOTAL | 6,9% | % | 9,8% | % |
18.5.1.2. Imputation rate by NACE
| NACE | R&D Expenditure | R&D personnel (FTE) | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Unweighted | Weighted | Unweighted | Weighted | |
| Industry1) | 7,1% | % | 11,4% | % |
| Services2) | 6,8% | % | 8,9% | % |
| TOTAL | 6,9% | % | 9,8% | % |
1) Industry (NACE Rev. 2: 01-03, 05-09,10-33,35,36-39,41-43)
2) Services (NACE Rev 2.: 45-47, 49-53, 55-56, 58-63, 64-66 68, 69-75, 77-82, 84, 85, 86-88, 90-93, 94-96, 97-98, 99)
18.5.2. Data compilation methods
| Data compilation method - Final data | Final data available at T+10, annual survey. Full data produced with same methodology every year. |
|---|---|
| Data compilation method - Preliminary data | Not applicable. |
18.5.3. Measurement issues
| Method of derivation of regional data | Direct question requesting breakdown of the main variables by municipality. |
|---|---|
| Coefficients used for estimation of the R&D share of more general expenditure items | Not applicable. |
| Inclusion or exclusion of VAT and provisions for depreciation in the measurement of expenditures | According to the FM. |
18.5.4. Weighting and estimation methods
| Weight calculation method | The main component is R&D panel in which weighting is compensation for the non-response only. Sampling part contributes about 5% to the total and weights are partly expanded to the sampling frame (outlier weights are treated separately). |
|---|---|
| Data source used for deriving population totals (universe description) | The official business register of Statistics Finland. |
| Variables used for weighting | Turnover. |
| Calibration method and the software used | Not applicable. |
| Estimation | The main component is R&D panel in which weighting is compensation for the non-response only. Sampling part contributes about 5% to the total and weights are partly expanded to the sampling frame (outlier weights are treated separately). |
18.6. Adjustment
Not requested.
18.6.1. Seasonal adjustment
Not requested.
No comments.
Statistics on Business enterprise R&D (BERD) measure research and experimental development (R&D) performed in the business enterprise sector, i.e. R&D expenditure and R&D personnel. In line with this objective, the target population for the national R&D survey of the business enterprise sector consists of all R&D performing enterprises (including all R&D performers – occasional and continuous, known and unknown - in all branches and size classes) belonging to this sector. The “enterprise” is defined in Council Regulation (EEC) No 1993/696 of 15 March 1993. The results are related to the population of all R&D performing enterprises classified in Sections A to U of the common statistical classification of economic activities as established by Regulation (EC) No 1893/2006 of the European Parliament and of the Council (NACE Rev.2).
The main concepts and definitions used for the production of R&D statistics are given by OECD (2015), Frascati Manual 2015: Guidelines for Collecting and Reporting Data on Research and Experimental Development, The Measurement of Scientific, Technological and Innovation Activities, which is the internationally recognised standard methodology for collecting R&D statistics, and by Eurostat’s European Business Statistics Methodological Manual on R&D Statistics (EBS Methodological Manual on R&D Statistics).
The guiding document to preparing the quality reports is the European Statistical System (ESS) for Quality and Metadata Reports — re-edition 2021.
Since the beginning of 2021, the collection of R&D statistics is based on Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) No 2020/1197 of 30 July 2020. The Regulation sets the framework for the collection of R&D statistics and specifies the main variables of interest and their breakdowns at predefined level of detail.
31 October 2025
Please see the sub-concepts 3.4.1 and 3.4.2 in the full metadata view.
The statistical unit for BERD is the enterprise as defined by Council Regulation (EEC) No 1993/696 of 15 March 1993, if there are deviations please explain.
Please see the sub-concepts 3.6.1 and 3.6.2 in the full metadata view.
Not requested. R&D statistics cover national and regional data.
Calendar year 2023.
Accuracy in the statistical sense denotes the closeness of computations or estimates to the exact or true values. Statistics are not equal with the true values because of variability (the statistics change from implementation to implementation of the survey due to random effects) and bias (the average of the possible values of the statistics from implementation to implementation is not equal to the true value due to systematic effects).
Several types of statistical errors occur during the survey process. The following typology of errors has been adopted:
- Sampling errors. These only affect sample surveys. They are due to the fact that only a subset of the population, usually randomly selected, is enumerated.
- Non-sampling errors. Non-sampling errors affect sample surveys and complete enumerations alike and comprise:
-
- Coverage errors,
- Measurement errors,
- Non response errors and
- Processing errors.
Model assumption errors should be treated under the heading of the respective error they are trying to reduce.
R&D expenditure is published in the following units: Euro (MIO_EUR) and Euro per inhabitant (EUR_HAB); data are available in the following units: basic unit National currency (MIO_NAC); Purchasing Power Standard (MIO_PPS); Purchasing Power Standard at 2005 prices (MIO_PPS_KP05); Purchasing Power Standard per inhabitant at constant 2005 prices (PPS_HAB_KP05); Percentage of gross domestic product (PC_GDP); and Percentage of total R&D expenditure (PC_TOT - for the breakdown by source of funds).
R&D personnel data are published in full-time equivalent (FTE), in head count (HC), as a percentage of total employment and as a percentage of active population.
See below.
Several separate activities are used for the collection of raw data or pre-compiled administrative data and statistics related to R&D. This section collects information on the type of data collection instruments used as well as methodological information for each data collection instrument. Depending on the type of data collection instrument used, only the sections corresponding to that data collection instrument are filled in.
At Eurostat level the frequency of R&D data dissemination is yearly for provisional and final data.
Annual R&D statistics release by Statistics Finland.
Timeliness and punctuality refer to time and dates, but in a different manner: the timeliness of statistics reflects the length of time between their availability and the event or phenomenon they describe. Punctuality refers to the time lag between the release date of the data and the target date on which they should have been delivered, with reference to dates announced in the official release calendar.
This sub-concept refers to the geographical comparability of data among the 27 Member States and the EFTA and Candidate Countries.
For more information related to the break years and the nature of the breaks, see the following sub-concepts in the full metadata view.
