UK services output index: other professional & scientific
UK services output index: other professional & scientific stood at 97.9 in Jul 2026, according to Office for National Statistics (ONS). It is one of the indicators in the Monthly GDP and output table (Value · Monthly), with a complete series running from Jan 1997 to Jul 2026. The complete series with an interactive chart, free to download.
This indicator in the Monthly GDP and output table
| Indicator | 07-2026 | 06-2026 | 05-2026 | 04-2026 | 03-2026 | 02-2026 | 01-2026 | 12-2025 | 11-2025 | 10-2025 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Services output index by industry | |||||||||||
| 74 — Other professional scientific and technical activities | 97.9 | 96.8 | 94.9 | 95.4 | 99.1 | 98.7 | 93.2 | 98.1 | 105.1 | 105.7 | |
| 75 — Veterinary activities | 113.1 | 110.9 | 109.9 | 109.7 | 112.9 | 111 | 111.5 | 111 | 109.2 | 110.5 |
Understanding UK services output index: other professional & scientific
Specialised technical testing, scientific research projects, laboratory analysis, and design consultancy services provided throughout the United Kingdom form the basis of this output measure. The series isolates high-skill technical operations from general business support, focusing strictly on empirical research, product testing laboratories, translation services, and specialised technical design work. Data collection relies on turnover samples from businesses engaged in scientific investigation and applied technical analysis, adjusted for price inflation using dedicated deflators.
Seasonality in scientific and technical fields often aligns with academic calendars, grant funding allocations, and industrial research and development spending cycles. Monthly estimates are subject to revision as additional survey returns are processed by statistical authorities. Observers find year-on-year comparisons more reliable than consecutive month metrics because long-term research contracts and testing schedules introduce smooth annual patterns that can mask underlying momentum when viewed month-to-month.
Frequently asked questions
- How does this measure differ from general business support indices?
- This series focuses exclusively on scientific research, laboratory testing, and specialised technical consultancy rather than routine administrative office tasks.
- What causes periodic volatility in scientific and technical output data?
- Fluctuations often stem from the timing of large research project completions, grant funding cycles, and variable demand for laboratory testing.
- Is a month-on-month or year-on-year comparison better for analysing this series?
- Twelve-month comparisons are generally more reliable as they smooth out project-based billing patterns and seasonal academic cycles.