To monitor the performance of their economies, OECD governments need reliable statistics and policy-relevant economic analysis. In the field of science, technolgy and industry, the OECD responds to this need by developing databases and indicators that can be used as the basis for further analytical work. It also plays a leading role in the development of international statistical standards.

The OECD's work in this area looks at ways of measuring economic performance from four different perspectives. The first is concerned with the impact of globalisation on OECD economies. The second focuses on trends in industrial performance. The third deals with advances in science and technology; while the fourth examines recent developments in information and communication technologies (ICTs).

The OECD performs much of this work under the aegis of working parties composed of national experts from its 30 Member countries. These in turn work in close association with the national statistical offices responsible for collecting data at the national level. They meet on a regular basis to perform in-depth economic analysis on the policy relevance and international comparability of indicators.

The OECD issues the results of its work in the form of basic statistics and indicators which are available in either electronic or printed format. It also publishes methodological manuals, working papers and periodical publications. These works underpin policy-relevant analysis reflecting the main economic trends and highlighing the links between technology, competitiveness and globalisation.