Producing and delivering data
Census outputs are the facts and figures produced from using the questionnaires collected on census day. The information from the questionnaires is processed to produce a database from which results are drawn - information about identifiable individuals is never released. They are presented either as simple counts, such as the number of children, or as figures which relate one topic to another, such as the number of children in one parent families. The linking of topics is one of the most valuable features of a census.
Investigations are under way to assess the feasibility of the following aims and aspirations for 2011 Census outputs:
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Consistent, joined-up and comparable UK outputs
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Outputs free at the point of delivery
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Dissemination using up to date technology
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Flexible table generation online
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Comparisons between 2001 and 2011 outputs
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Concurrent first release of statistics across the UK
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Statistics released concurrently for all areas in England and Wales
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Concurrent publication of appropriate metadata with associated statistical outputs
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Common UK statistical disclosure control methodology for census 2011 outputs
An initial 2011 UK Census output consultation aims to find out what users of the 2011 Census want from the data we gather and to help us to prioritise identified output needs. The consultation by the three UK Census offices (ONS, GROS, and NISRA), running from 25 February 2008 for approximately 12 weeks, is via an online survey and supporting website which includes a blog.
The UK Registrars General have collectively committed to working jointly on the 2011 Census with the aim of maximising harmonisation across the separate census operations. The objectives of the Registrars General are set out in the Registrars General's Agreement. The aim is to promote UK harmonisation and to produce consistent and coherent outputs for the UK and for each component country. A paper on Output Aims and a policy statement on statistical disclosure control are now available as annexes to the agreement. A number of UK-wide committees have been set up to consider different areas of census development where common methodologies and approaches can be adopted.
