The Center for Labor Market Research has two main focus areas: economic forecasting and economic policy analysis. This research group at the Institute was a pioneer in the area of regional economic forecasting, particularly its emphasis on small, local economies at a time when there was virtually no forecasting being done below the national level. Development of a methodology led to publication of a book which has earned academic acclaim and has proven to be a valuable tool for state and local government planners. The strength of the methodology combined with continued refinements over time have resulted in a long, distinguished record for accuracy in forecasting labor market activity for a number of localities, especially their future prospects for employment and income.