Data Collection Quality Improvement (DCQI) at the Census Bureau: A Research Agenda

Internet self-response and the use of auxiliary information are two potential methods for addressing the high nonresponse and data collection costs of in-person data collection for major federal surveys. However, it is not always clear how to best implement these methods. The Data Collection Quality Improvement (DCQI) initiative at the Census Bureau was created to address this gap. After reviewing existing research and consulting with survey directors and sponsors, the DCQI team identified four initial focus areas for its research agenda: 1) Implementing a contact strategy and sequencing modes, 2) Designing an internet instrument comparable to existing modes, 3) Ensuring data quality in a multi-mode context, and 4) Using auxiliary information instead of or as a supplement to traditional survey data. In this document, we describe ongoing and upcoming efforts in the focus areas. This research agenda will evolve over time. Future updates will report on research progress and offer guidance to survey programs looking to implement ISR and/or auxiliary information. The DCQI team will also continue to collaborate with survey directors and sponsors to ensure research addresses their most pressing needs.