World Bank Website for Data and Statistics

Extracted 29AUG2011 from http://data.worldbank.org/news/how-are-data-and-statistics-produced

The data website of the World Bank makes extensive use of data from the national statistical systems of countries – often called “official” statistics. But what are official statistics? Where do they come from? What does it take to produce them? Why are there data gaps in many of the series?

These questions were the driving force behind creating the new “Virtual Statistical System.” This new website provides reference materials and links about the organization, management, and methods of national statistical systems. A key objective is to provide easy access to these materials so that statisticians in developing countries can improve their national statistical systems, and so that users of those statistics can easily find in-depth knowledge about the data.