# National Establishment Time Series Database: A Comprehensive Resource for Business Data
## What is the National Establishment Time Series Database?
The National Establishment Time Series (NETS) Database is one of the most comprehensive business databases available today. Developed by Walls & Associates in collaboration with Dun & Bradstreet, this powerful resource provides longitudinal establishment-level data covering the entire United States.
Unlike static business directories, NETS tracks establishments over time, offering researchers, analysts, and policymakers unique insights into business dynamics, economic trends, and regional development patterns.
## Key Features of NETS Database
The NETS Database stands out for several important features:
– Longitudinal tracking of establishments from 1990 to present
– Coverage of all industries and geographic areas in the U.S.
– Detailed establishment-level information including employment, sales, and location
– Annual updates to maintain data currency
– Standardized industry codes (NAICS) for consistent classification
## Applications of NETS Data
Researchers and analysts use the National Establishment Time Series Database for various purposes:
### Economic Research
Economists leverage NETS data to study business formation, survival rates, and employment dynamics across different sectors and regions. The longitudinal nature of the data allows for sophisticated analyses of business cycles and economic shocks.
### Regional Development
Urban planners and regional economists use NETS to examine patterns of business location, migration, and clustering. This helps identify economic strengths and weaknesses in specific areas.
### Market Analysis
Businesses utilize NETS information for competitive intelligence, site selection, and market potential assessments. The establishment-level detail provides granular insights not available in aggregated data sources.
## Data Structure and Coverage
The NETS Database organizes information in a relational structure that connects establishments over time. Key components include:
– Establishment characteristics (industry, size, age)
– Performance metrics (employment, sales)
– Geographic identifiers (state, county, ZIP code)
– Linkages to parent companies
– Historical records showing changes over time
Coverage extends to all 50 states and territories, with particular strength in tracking small and medium-sized businesses that often get overlooked in other datasets.
## Accessing and Using NETS Data
The NETS Database is available through licensed access. Typical users include:
– Academic researchers
– Government agencies
– Economic development organizations
– Private sector analysts
Data can be extracted in various formats suitable for statistical analysis, GIS mapping, or business intelligence applications. Walls & Associates provides documentation and support to help users navigate the database’s rich features.
## Advantages Over Alternative Data Sources
Compared to other business databases, NETS offers several advantages:
– True longitudinal tracking (not just snapshots)
– Comprehensive coverage including small businesses
– Consistent methodology over time
– Detailed geographic coding
– Ability to analyze business dynamics rather than just static counts
For researchers needing to understand how businesses evolve, relocate, grow, or decline, NETS provides unparalleled insights into the U.S. economic landscape.
## Future Developments
The NETS Database continues to evolve with enhancements in:
– Data quality and coverage
– Integration with other datasets
– User interface improvements
– Advanced analytical tools
As the business environment becomes increasingly dynamic, resources like the National Establishment Time Series Database will grow even more valuable for understanding economic patterns and informing decision-making.
