What is the future of statistical compendia in the 21st century

Abstract

Statistical compendia, designed as printed reference tools that consolidate a range of statistical data, are being reshaped in the face of changes in information technology. New capabilities have propelled these compendia to the web and on onto a CD-ROM. However, most remain electronic mirrors of their print editions. What functionalities are necessary to support the evolution of the statistical abstract in the changing information landscape? What do users want and how do they want it presented? With increasing online accessibility to data from original sources, is bringing together that data into one package still important? Why or why not? The US Bureau of Justice Statistics (BJS) sponsored research into these issues as they relate to its statistical compendia, the Sourcebook of Criminal Justice Statistics which has been published for over 30 years. The study used various techniques including focus groups; a consensus building Delphi with a panel of experts in criminal justice, cognitive psychology, information science, computer science, and statistical dissemination; and usability testing. This paper summarizes the findings of this research that are applicable to all statistical compendia and to statistical publishing in general.