Experiences in data structuring gained from running a general statistical data bank system

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Lutz, Hansheinz¹

Note: [1] Hansheinz Lutz, born 1934, joined the Austrian Central Statistical Office in 1965, where he took charge of the section for mathematical methods and statistical planning. In this field he was primarily engaged with the introduction of sampling methods, and in particular the setting up of the Austrian Microcensus. Since 1967, he is responsible for the technical division of the office, including the computing center as its largest sub-unit. From then on the development of the computing services of the office was his main field of activity, encompassing also the design and implementation of the statistical data bank system referred to in the present paper.

Abstract: The statistical data bank system of the Austrian Central Statistical Office has given rise to a number of data structuring experiences during the ten years of its operation. On the basis of the scope and usage of the system and its basic structural properties, the experiences gained with the structural main aspects of segments, criteria of classification, retrieval aids, user classes, and the dynamic viewpoint are of particular interest. Starting from considerations which we confined to structural characteristics visible on the user surface of the only part of the system, general findings can be identified which appear to be valid beyond the individual approach taken in Austria.

DOI: 10.3233/SJU-1984-2206

Journal: Statistical Journal of the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe, vol. 2, no. 2, pp. 179-190, 1984