Net Figures methodology

Our methodology for processing raw statistical data is divided into two parts:

• Current and past data
• Forecast data

Current and past data: Net Profit’s statisticians have been building and maintaining an in-house database of Internet statistics since 1998. Raw data in this database is drawn from national statistical bodies, the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the World Bank, the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) and the Statistical Office of the European Commission (Eurostat). We receive additional data through strategic partnerships with Nielsen/NetRatings, the Internet audience measurement specialist, EMC, the research company specialising in the wireless market, and the European Information Technology Observatory (EITO). Our statisticians analyse the methodology and definitions used in third party figures, and standardise them according to out own definitions.use this raw data to build a comprehensive, comparative quantitative picture of networked economy in 72 countries. This analysis is unique, and not available elsewhere.

Forecast data: Our forecasted data are the results of tailored econometric models run for each country, refined to take account of variations that will affect indicators in different ways. Our data reflect a thorough analysis of socio-economic variables, ranging from macro and micro economic attitudes of governments, via demographic profiles of Internet users, to highly specific factors. As an example: e-commerce revenues are adjusted according to dates of the New Year in different countries (revenues will be higher in the quarter preceding, and lower in the following quarter). The figures are subject to constant revision to take into account oscillations. The effects of political crises are incorporated as soon as we have carried out an analysis, as are events such as changes in tax regimes that affect e-commerce.
We therefore use our detailed empirical knowledge of specific countries, sectors and technologies to tailor our forecasting models to ensure that they are as accurate as possible.

Frequency of revision: All our series are quarterly. However, we are constantly revising figures in the light of events or changing circumstances. The product is constantly under review in order to expand and update coverage.


For further information, please contact Dr Qmars Safikhani (qsafikhani@netprofit.co.uk). Tel: +44 (0)20 7403 1140