The working unit for Statistical Survey Methods investigates, on the one hand, the methodological problems which occur in the generation and evaluation of panel studies in general, and the LIfBi studies in particular. Among the most significant here are the generation of sample plans and the correct analysis of survey data whilst following the survey designs in question, and taking missing values and selective dropout into account. On the other hand, this working unit examines the item quality of longitudinal survey studies like NEPS. This involves the conceptualization of processes for quality management during instrument development, documentary tasks, and testing the efficacy of individual and panel items. Both the analysis of survey data and the testing of the efficacy of panel items require the development and application of new methodological approaches in the field of survey statistics.

The subunit Sampling, Weighting, and Imputation is assigned to the working unit for Statistical Survey Methods.