Data that reflect the current labor market are key to the value of the Occupational Information Network (O*NET®) as the nation's primary resource for comprehensive occupational information. The O*NET project is involved in a multiyear data collection program, approved by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB # 1205-0421), to gather information from workers in occupations in the O*NET-SOC occupational structure. Data for approximately 200 occupations are collected each year.

Data are collected directly from incumbent workers in targeted occupations at business establishments statistically selected from a random sample. These workers complete standardized questionnaires, available in mailed paper- or web-based forms. Returned data collection instruments are analyzed and information is incorporated into the O*NET database on a periodic basis. The new occupational information is made available through the O*NET OnLine application and in the downloadable O*NET database files.

Under the sponsorship of the Department of Labor (DOL)/Employment and Training Administration (ETA), O*NET data collection activities are conducted by the National Center for O*NET Development, located in Raleigh, North Carolina. The O*NET Center has contracted with the Research Triangle Institute (RTI) in the Raleigh area for survey planning, data collection and input, and analysis. Both organizations maintain Web sites with more detailed information, including background on the O*NET data collection program, the information collection request for clearance by the Office of Management and Budget, copies of the O*NET data collection instruments, and Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs).

O*NET Resource Center

O*NET Data Collection Program at Research Triangle Institute

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