How Private Data can Augment Official StatisticsWhile official statistics compiled by government agencies are still considered the most reliable, policymakers are increasingly using private data to get around their limitations. Former Federal Reserve economist Claudia Sahm says the immediacy and granularity of private company data should serve as a complement to traditional data, not as a substitute.CLAUDIA SAHMSee AlsoMagazine ArchivesCountry FocusBlogs