Improving the Navigational Qualities of the Decennial Census Short Form Requires Paying Attention to the Entire Mailing Package

Written by:
SM97-01

Introduction

Because of poor mail return rates in the 1990 census, the entire implementation strategy of the 1990 census came under question and a program of methodological research was undertaken to increase response rates for the year 2000 census. Thirteen variables dealing with various aspects of the census process were investigated, such as the return envelope, the number of contacts made by mail, various motivational messages, and questionnaire design.

Page Last Revised - February 11, 2025