title: A Comparison of EPI Sampling, Probability Sampling, and Compact Segment Sampling Methods for Micro and Small Enterprises.
abstract: Finding an efficient method for sampling micro- and small-enterprises (MSEs) for research and statistical reporting purposes is a challenge in developing countries, where registries of MSEs are often nonexistent or outdated. This lack of a sampling frame creates an obstacle in finding a representative sample of MSEs. This study uses computer simulations to draw samples from a census of businesses and non-businesses in the Tshwane Municipality of South Africa, using three different sampling methods: the traditional probability sampling method, the compact segment sampling method, and the World Health Organization's Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI) sampling method. Three mechanisms by which the methods could differ are tested, the proximity selection of respondents, the at-home selection of respondents, and the use of inaccurate probability weights. The results highlight the importance of revisits and accurate probability weights, but the lesser effect of proximity selection on the samples' statistical properties.
authors.affiliation: Population Studies Center, University of Pennsylvania, 3718 Locust Walk, Room 239, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104-6298, U.S.A.
authors.forename: Li-Wei
authors.initials: LW
authors.lastname: Chao
authors.forename: Helena
authors.initials: H
authors.lastname: Szrek
authors.forename: Karl
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Peltzer
authors.forename: Shandir
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Ramlagan
authors.forename: Peter
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Fleming
authors.forename: Rui
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Leite
authors.forename: Jesswill
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Magerman
authors.forename: Godfrey B
authors.initials: GB
authors.lastname: Ngwenya
authors.forename: Nuno Sousa
authors.initials: NS
authors.lastname: Pereira
authors.forename: Jere
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Behrman