The dashboard, found at focusnj.org/economic-tracker, compares current and historical economic data through interactive maps, charts and tables and will be regularly updated as data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and other agencies arrives.

“In times of economic uncertainty, it is more important than ever for any and all to have access to reliable, real-time economic data,” said Focus NJ Executive Director Kyle Sullender.

“Focus NJ has created this tool so users can quickly compare key economic indicators across states and industries as they are released. Because we are particularly focused on New Jersey, select indicators can also be viewed at the county level for our state.”

Data categories on Focus NJ’s Economic Tracker currently include, by state and nationally: Unemployment Rate; quarterly and annual Gross Domestic Product (GDP); GDP by Industry; Labor Force size and Participation Rate; and Employment by Industry.

The state quarterly GDP data also provides an automatic comparison of GDP percentage change to the previous quarter.

At launch, users can access data going back to January 2018 and make comparisons to later dates, which can also be displayed in easy-to-read graphics that automatically compares any selected state with national data.

All data included in the dashboard’s interactive charts and graphics is also available to view in static data tables.

“This information has always been publicly available from the agencies that produce it but identifying current and past data points can be frustrating for stakeholders who don’t regularly track these statistics,” Sullender said.

“Our goal was to eliminate that barrier and make tracking and comparing these figures fast and simple. Additionally, this tool allows us to provide updates on the state’s economic conditions in real time.”

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Focus NJ – the Center for Economic Research and Workforce Solutions – is a nonpartisan, nonprofit research foundation launched by NJBIA in February 2020.  It provides deep analysis of public policies, industry trends and economic indicators that impact New Jersey’s overall affordability, workforce and competitiveness.