Experimental statistics covers projects in development that introduce innovations into data sources, statistical methods, fields of study and methods of disseminating results. These projects are at an exploratory stage, where the data and procedures do not yet meet the reliability, stability or quality standards required to be part of official statistics 

In line with the strategy of the European Statistical System (ESS), experimental statistics promote modernisation and innovation in the production of statistics. Their main aim is to reduce the burden associated with traditional surveys, meet the needs of users in a timely manner and provide information adapted to a dynamic and ever-changing environment.

Projects in experimental statistics can be classified into two main categories:

Experimental statistical results

Experimental statistical operations