When is census preferred

The advantages of a census include accuracy and detail. However, they are also expensive and time consuming. Collecting data from a larger population involves lengthy analysis and a significantly longer publication time-frame. With the world census, we get specific information, primarily world population. The US Census information is used to help set budgets, establish seats for the U.

S House of Representatives, and many more important decisions. Is it really possible to collect feedback from every single person? The larger the group, of course, the most difficult this challenge becomes. These kinds of decisions clearly have an impact on the results of the study. In , the Supreme Court was asked to rule on whether a question about citizenship should be included in the Census. For those who insist on conducting a census instead of a sampling, here are some pros and cons to consider:.

Conducting a census often results in enough respondents to have a high degree of statistical confidence in the survey results. If you have a population of less than 1, individuals, you may often need to survey everyone to achieve statistical confidence. If you're using online survey software , such as Inquisium by Cvent , you can set up email alerts to notify the surveyor, customer care department, sales team, etc.

By acting on negative feedback immediately, organizations have the chance to improve their customer satisfaction ratings.

For annual measurements, such as a customer satisfaction survey, it's important to give everyone the opportunity to provide feedback. Organizations cannot ask the same people to complete a survey time and time again.

If you email your house list a survey, you have to respect their time. If you decide to conduct a census, be sure to evaluate other survey projects that are in the pipeline. Sample Survey Design Considerations When running a sample survey, there are several design considerations that need to be taken into account that are specific to sample surveys. These additional factors include: sample size, sample design, the mode of estimation based on survey results and, where applicable, stratification, allocation of the sample across the strata and the selection of the sample within the strata.

These factors, however, depend on many other factors such as the objectives of the survey, nature of target population, data items to be collected, level of accuracy required etc. We use a census when we want accurate information for many subdivisions of the population. Such a survey usually requires a very large sample size and often a census offers the best solution. Advantages of Censuses compared with Sample Surveys: The advantages of a census are that: Data for small areas may be available, assumimg satisfactory response rates are achieved.

Data for sub-populations may be available, assumimg satisfactory response rates are achieved. Because of the above reasons detailed cross-tabulations may be possible. The estimates are not subject to sampling error.