Macro-editing – A review of some methods for rationalizing the editing of survey data

Abstract

The objective is to present macro-editing methods as a weapon against over-editing. In experimental studies in data-processing environments and in production they have proved superior to micro-editing methods for editing quantitative data. Savings of manual verifying work of 35 up to 80 per cent are reported.

The paper is mainly devoted to an overview of studies of macro-editing methods. Emphasis is given to the rational aspects of macro-editing as compared to micro-editing by presenting the results of several studies and by discussing the problems connected with micro-editing. The methods are described in a brief and schematic form to make them easy to understand. This review serves as a basis for considering macro-editing methods when designing an editing system for a survey with quantitative data.

Detailed descriptions of the methods and studies are found in the references given in the text and in the reference list. Stress is laid on the specific features of every method in order to facilitate a choice.

The paper concludes with a summing-up discussion of macro-editing versus micro-editing methods.