Title: A microprocessor revolution in data collection?

POPLINE Document Number: 266686

Author(s):

Feeney G

Source citation:

Asian and Pacific Census Forum, 1983 Aug;10(1):1, 13.

Abstract:

The possibility of using microprocessors in census and survey data production is studied. Currently there is a bottleneck in census and survey data production in the stage where the information on the questionnaires is transformed into computer-medium records for further processing. This includes coding, data entry, and manual editing. Field operations are completed in a matter of weeks or months, as are computer tabulation and offset printing. Yet it is not uncommon to have to wait 1 year for the results of a survey and 2 or more years for the majority of census reports. Much of the time is accounted for by coding, editing, and data entry operations. If a microprocessor were used, it might be possible for final survey results to be available within a week of the end of field operations. The article envisions a scenario where an enumerator device is used. Such a device is within reach of current technology and something similar is already being used in telephone surveys. The technical challenge lies in packaging such a system for use by enumerators in the field, and at a cost that is not prohibitive. For the last 20 years the cost of information processing has been declining rapidly; another 20 years of comparable development would put enumerator devices within easy reach. The extent of the market is another important consideration, since production volume is necessary to reduce costs. The market would be large since every world government and every large business is more or less continually engaged in collecting information. The use of microprocessors in survey data collection would increase both the data quality and the speed with which data could be produced. Moreover, these effects might reduce costs, making another cost argument in their favor.

Keywords:

Evaluation Methodology
Census
Computers
Demographic Surveys
Census Methods
Information Processing
Data Collection
Computer Programs and Programming
Correlation of Data
Data Reporting
Data Storage and Retrieval
Critique
Cost Benefit Analysis
Information Distribution
Marketing
Technology
Evaluation
Population Statistics
Research Methodology
Information
Population Dynamics
Demographic Factors
Population
Correlation Studies
Statistical Studies
Studies
Quantitative Evaluation
Communication
Economic Factors