How can census data be analysed on computer?

As the nature of software has changed over time, the preparation of data has also changed.

• The 1851 sample was originally prepared for analysis using dedicated statistical packages such as the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS), and for this reason many of the variables are numerically coded, enabling contingencies tables and other statistics to be constructed quickly.
• However, the transcribed textual data in the 1851 and 1881 databases are better suited to database management software, such as Microsoft Access, which can be used to create simple statistics and to re-code such descriptive fields. See the skills unit for more information about the use of database management software.
• Spreadsheets are not ideal for individual level data, although they can be used to graph results of queries. They are much better suited to the aggregate-level data available in the Irish Historical Database.
• Aggregate data from the census may also be mapped, and the Great Britain Historical Database includes historical boundary data, which can be used as ‘polygons’ with GIS software.