The U.S. Census Bureau is researching and testing the integration of operations and systems for the population to exercise its civic obligation to be counted in the 2020 Census. Whether through the internet, telephone, traditional paper questionnaires, or in-person visits, the Census Bureau is committed to making the mandatory once-a-decade headcount quick, easy, and safe for all to participate.
The 2018 Census Test supported the goal of the 2020 Census, which is to count everyone once, only once and in the right place. As 2020 Census operations move forward, the Census Bureau will continue to improve the use of mobile technology, administrative records, geospatial data, and self-response via the internet. This test provided insights and guided our planning to ensure an accurate census.
The Address Canvassing portion of the 2018 Census Test took place in three sites: Bluefield-Beckley-Oak Hill, W.Va.; Providence County, R.I.; and Pierce County, Wash.
The enumeration phase of the 2018 Census Test (self-response, nonresponse follow-up, and group quarters), which took place in Providence County, R.I., has concluded. However, the Census Bureau is continuing to process enumeration responses in order to create the 2018 Prototype P.L. 94-171 Redistricting Data File and supporting geographic products. These products will be released between January and March 2019.