The Census Bureau will distribute Census 2000 data through a variety of means, including compact disks (CDs), the Internet, and some printed reports. However, an innovative Internet site called American FactFinder (AFF) is the primary data-delivery mechanism. Designed to increase public access to census data, AFF was developed in 1996 and released on the Internet in March 1999. AFF is an interactive database engine that permits users to select data sets from the system and then utilize various options to allow for on-line viewing of data tables; display of charts, graphs or maps; and downloading of files. In addition, specialized products can be ordered through AFF. AFF is not limited to Census 2000 data and it already contains information from the 1990 census, American Community Survey, Census 2000 Dress Rehearsal, and the 1997 Economic Census. Again, strict confidentiality standards apply and information identifying individual persons or housing units cannot be accessed.
The bulk of Census 2000 data will be available on a flow basis beginning early 2001. Several categories of data products will be offered. Profiles for areas as small as cities, towns and villages will contain both 100% and sample data and will be available via AFF, CD and paper. Printed Reports will have tabulations of population and housing characteristics and total counts down to the place level. However, the geographic coverage in the printed reports will be relatively limited compared to previous censuses, particularly for detailed tabulations. Electronic versions of the printed documents or their contents will also be available via AFF. Electronic Files of numerous data tabulations will be produced, covering areas as small as blocks for 100% data and block groups for sample data. There will be electronic files on the AFF site and on CD for legislative redistricting data (i.e., PL 94-171 files), along with separate products for detailed 100% and detailed sample data (Summary Files 1 through 4). Quick Tables and Geographic Comparison Tables will be available through AFF.
Quick Tables are predetermined table shells with population and housing characteristics, where the user can specify a geographic area and population group. Geographic Comparison Tables provide population and housing characteristics for a list of geographic areas (e.g., all counties in New Mexico). Microdata Files (similar to 1990 census Public Use Microdata Sample files), containing both 1% and 5% samples of individual household records minus names and addresses will be produced on CD. Finally, Advanced Query Functions will be available through AFF, where the user can specify the contents of tabulations from the Census Bureau's full microdata file. Safeguards that prohibit disclosing identifying information about individuals and housing units will also be incorporated into this product.
To review a more detailed schedule of products and release dates, go to the Data Products Proposed Schedule section of the Census Bureau's web site.