A series of small area field tests will research and evaluate how the use of automation can improve efficiencies, improve data quality, and reduce respondent burden in field data collection activities for the 2020 Census. Field activities include: create and update address lists, record GPS points, enumerate households and persons, and conduct quality control. These activities can not be simulated and therefore it is necessary to preform these tests in a production environment. Respondents are households and persons. Data collected from respondents will not be used for any other purposes. The results of the automated activities will inform decision makers and stakeholders about the cost and design of the 2020 Census.
The reason for an increase in burden hours is to conduct the first two of a series of small-scale mailout tests to determine an optimal set of mailing materials emphasizing the Internet reporting option. These tests will enable the Census Bureau to meet their goal of accomplishing the 2020 Census data collection in a cost-efficient manner.
On behalf of this Federal agency, I certify that the collection of information encompassed by this request complies with 5 CFR 1320.9 and the related provisions of 5 CFR 1320.8(b)(3).
The following is a summary of the topics, regarding the proposed collection of information, that the certification covers:
(i) Why the information is being collected;
(ii) Use of information;
(iii) Burden estimate;
(iv) Nature of response (voluntary, required for a benefit, or mandatory);
(v) Nature and extent of confidentiality; and
(vi) Need to display currently valid OMB control number;
If you are unable to certify compliance with any of these provisions, identify the item by leaving the box unchecked and explain the reason in the Supporting Statement.