University to Host Special Economic Data Workshop, 5/9, Missoula

Discover how to use state and local data indicators from the federal Bureau of Economic Analysis in a special one-day workshop titled "Monitoring Montana’s Economy: Analyzing Local Economies through Data."

The event will be held from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday, May 9, in The University of Montana’s Gallagher Business Building. Space is limited to 48 people, and registrations must be received by Friday, May 4.

The workshop will be held in the UM business school’s high-tech computer lab, allowing attendees to learn firsthand how to work with the data. It costs $40 and includes parking, lunch and materials. For information or to register, contact UM’s Bureau of Business and Economic Research at 406-243-5113. Registration also is available online at http://www.bber.umt.edu.

Every day officials make decisions to invest public and private dollars based on federal economic statistics about our communities, counties and state. Sometimes finding the tools to make these decisions is overwhelming given the vast amount of data available.

This workshop explains the use of regional BEA economic data for policy-making and planning in a hands-on approach. This unique opportunity to access and understand BEA indicators will feature Rob Brown, BEA bureau chief for the Regional Economic Analysis Division; Gary Smith, director of the Pacific Northwest Regional Economic Analysis Project; and BBER economists.

Full Story: http://news.umt.edu/index.asp?sec=1&too=100&eve=8&dat=4/26/2007&npa=1649