The Short-Term Survey in Industry and Construction (sections B to F of ÖNACE 2008) introduced in 1996 serves as a vital source of information for the analysis of economic development in Austria. It serves as a basis for the calculation of relevant economic indicators, forecasts and national accounts. The survey also provides politicians and government authorities with important basic information for economic policy decisions. Market producers use the results to aid their decision-making regarding the choice of location or the development of new markets.
The information relevant to the business cycle is collected in a monthly survey of about 10 000 companies. This includes variables such as turnover, incoming and level of orders, employees, hours worked and earnings. Reporting is mandatory for all enterprises that exceed pre-defined legal cut-off thresholds.