The impact of new dataprocessing techniques at the Netherlands Central Bureau of Statistics

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Keller, W.J.^{; 1} | Metz, K.J.^{; 2}

Affiliations: Automation Department, Central Bureau of Statistics, P.O. Box 959, 2270 AZ Voorburg, The Netherlands

Note: [1] Wouter J. Keller studied electronics (BSc) and applied mathematics at the Twente University of Technology (MSc). After his study he was employed as associate professor at the Institute for Fiscal Studies of the Erasmus University Rotterdam and obtained his PhD in econometrics. In 1979 he joined the Netherlands Central Bureau of Statistics as head of the Department of Statistical Methods, and in 1987 he became the head of the Automation Department. Also since 1982 he is part-time professor of econometrics and informatics at the Free University of Amsterdam.

Note: [2] Kees Jan Metz studied electronics and numerical mathematics at the Technical University of Eindhoven, where he obtained his MSc degree in 1969. After his study and national service he was employed at the Department for Software & Systems Programming of Philips, at that time manufacturer of the P 1000-series of mainframe computers. In 1976 he joined the Netherlands Central Bureau of Statistics Automation Department where he is now a senior consultant in computer systems and networking.

Abstract: New processing techniques are having an impact on the management and organization of statistical data processing and on the relationship between computer specialists and statisticians. The CBS uses microcomputers in cooperation with mainframes and minicomputers which can increase both the efficiency of the process and the quality of the produced information. The introduction of microcomputers, however, has an impact on the organization of activities of both the automation department and the subject–matter departments. This calls for a determined policy with respect to the decentralization of regular data processing, and for the standardization of automation tools.

DOI: 10.3233/SJU-1989-6303

Journal: Statistical Journal of the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe, vol. 6, no. 3, pp. 213-222, 1989