Census Corner
The eCensus
The eCensus Team is responsible for the development and implementation of the electronic Census form, planned for use in the 2006 Census. The team was formed in June 2003.
The eCensus project combines the usual issues associated with the sheer scale of the census, with Internet issues such as security and useability, and the significant challenge of integrating the eCensus with the traditional collection and processing of data on paper forms.
The team is currently involved in preparation for the Major Test, to be held in August this year. Some of the aims of the Test are integrating eCensus procedures into existing field procedures and systems, proofing and testing of the eCensus form and system, and creation of promotional documentation for the purpose of educating the public about the eCensus. The eCensus form to be used in this test has been developed in-house.
The other major focus for the team is to conduct a tender process to find an industry partner to develop the 2006 eCensus system. The chosen vendor will provide a solution for use in the Dress Rehearsal, and with refinement, for the census in 2006.
The Major Test will allow further development of the eCensus form, which will form the basis of the 2006 application, as well as adding to the teams understanding of data collection via the Internet. The Major Test will also facilitate a more accurate estimation of the eCensus take up rate to be expected for the 2006 Census, and allow information to be gathered on the operating systems and web browsers used by respondents. A better understanding of these elements will assist in the development of a suitable eCensus system for 2006.
A recent focus for the team was the challenge of making the eCensus access codes available in a format accessible to the visually impaired. The eCensus team undertook consultation with peak disability bodies such as Vision Australia and the Royal Blind Society, who worked in conjunction with the ABS to assist in the development of a strategy for assisting the visually impaired to complete an online census form. The resulting strategy includes the production of eCensus Braille cards and Large Print Format, which will be used to deliver the eCensus access codes to visually impaired respondents, on request. Visually impaired respondents may also request to be given their access codes verbally. This solution will be tested in the Major Test, with analysis focussing on the level of demand for alternate formats, as well as requests for additional formats. The conclusions of this analysis will determine the strategy accommodating the visually impaired used in the 2006 Census.
The eCensus team recognise that the eCensus project will be a high-profile representation of the ABS, and are committed to producing a high quality Internet solution that upholds the favourable reputation of the census program and the ABS.
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