The inclusion of most enterprises in all initial groups, indicating that they all have common problems, enables us to use one form for them all. If the problems of enterprises do not overlap, several forms for larger groups of enterprises can be devised. However, this will complicate considerably the collection and processing of information and raise the problem of generalising data.

Forms should be precise, preferably in the form of tables, to standardise the process of collecting initial information and its processing. At the first stage both the essense of questions and their form can be specified. Subsequently, however, the form should remain unchanged for a certain period (for example, a quarter). The period depends on the rates of change in the general situation and specific tasks of the form. They could include speical questions just once or for a short period of time, in order to specify certain situations at enterprises. But they should not be made too complicated. There should be no more than 10-12 questions, and all additions and amendments should be included in such a way that the general idea is not destroyed, keep the form comparable and ensure the fullest possible reflection of changes to have taken place.

Poll Frequency

Polls will be held every month. Their findings will be presented by the tenth day of the following month. To be able to compile forecasts and devise quick measures, information should be provided regularly from all enterprises.

Ways of Collecting of Information

Information can be collected at enterprises by structures dealing with economic and labour issues. The collection and accumulation of information can be controlled by public organisations incorporating enterprise managers. For example, in Nizhni Novgorod Oblast, this function can be fulfilled by the Nizhni Novgorod Association of Enterprises and Organisations (Russian abbreviation NAPO).

Application of Collected Information

Initial information should be sent to the department of economy and forecasting at the regional administration, to be used as the basis for an analytical report. The results could be used to assess the general economic situation in the region, forecast developments (above all on the labour market), and draft recommendations on the choice of emergency measures to be applied by the local authorities. Initial information should also be presented to the Employment Centre to specify redundancy forecasts and draft an employment programme.

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