Purpose: To evaluate the impact of using PRD on the response process during data collection and recommend guidelines for its use to increase data quality. 

For many ongoing survey programs, NASS will have data from previous contactswith an agricutural operations available. To date, NASS makes minimal use of this previoulsy reported data (PRD) during subsequent contacts.

The objective of using PRD during data collection is to increase accuracy of currently reported data. It also has the potential to reduce the reporting burden for respondents. Previous studies have indicated that PRD can increase data accuracy but also that it can prompt systematic errors in reporting. PRD is currently being used for only a few selected items in NASS survey interviews. With the increased use of computer assisted data collection and accessibility of PRD, via the data warehouse, the number of its potential uses is increasing. However, we do not always know how PRD affects the reporting process, and more critically, how it affects the quality of reported data and ultimately, survey estimates. 

The goal of this project will be to provide the Agency with more information and guidance on when to use PRD and recommendations for how best to incorporate it into the interview process.