The New Haven Census Use Study was set up to demonstrate how census techniques can be employed to display information about the use of land and the distribution of people within cities. Using the new haven special census of 1967 (a trial run of the 1970 national census) for its test data, the study first established liaisons with over 70 local agencies which might use census-obtained information, and then: (1) translated their demands into detailed specifications which could be programmed, (2) developed computer methods to tailor census output directly to local needs by tabulations and computer-produced maps, and (3) developed non-computer methods leading to better use of data on small areas. The study centered its technical effort on the formation of an accurate geographic base file reflecting the city map, and on the testing of computer programs which use this file to make non-standard tabulations, to match diverse data, and to produce maps. the study has tentatively concluded that the geographic base file is a very important tool for planners, that programs for handling data must be far more flexible than those now available, and that work must continue in order to develop an efficient and inexpensive planning- information system.
Abstract