Abstract
Daniel Gillman (2002) "Decision Criteria For Using Automated Coding In Survey Processing."
Some survey data are classified into pre-specified categories during
a process known as coding. If a computer assigns codes without human
interaction, then this is called automated coding. Manual coding,
computer-assisted manual coding, and interactive coding all require some
level of human interaction.
The decision to employ automated coding in survey processing is not
simple. There are many options and expenses to consider. Some of these
are as follows: 1.) who develops the software; 2.) what is an acceptable
error rate; 3.) how will errors be controlled; 4.) what percent of the
cases must the automated coder classify; 5.) how much maintenance will a
production system require; and 6.) what new resources must be developed
to build an automated coder.
These criteria and others are described in this paper. A cost model
is developed along with a description of the interactions between the
criteria. Finally, some examples are given to show how the model might
be employed by a survey organization.
Last Modified Date: March 19, 2003
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