Making digital transformation more visible in economic statistics
Digital transformation of the economy has increased so quickly that some say economic
statistics have failed to keep up. While on balance the current statistical standard
used by countries to compile gross domestic product – the 2008 System of National
Accounts – can reflect the changing nature of the digital age, some have questioned
whether this is enough. Digital supply-use tables (digital SUTs) may provide, at least
partly, a solution to this challenge. By disaggregating established indicators in
the national accounts, information is generated for research and policy purposes that
provides better insights on how digital transformation affects the economy, while
still remaining consistent with SNA principles. This Going Digital Toolkit note identifies
the measurement difficulties brought about by the digitalisation of the economy, and
explains how digital SUTs are designed to help address them. Examples of relevant
work that has been undertaken by OECD member countries and could contribute to the
compilation of the digital SUTs are showcased.