Businesses looking to get planning and marketing data on the cheap can learn how to mine U.S. Census data from the 2000 survey at a series of workshops sponsored by the state Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism. State offers instruction in
using U.S. Census dataStar-Bulletin staff
Basic demographic information is available and targeted to very specific geographical areas.
"These workshops will be especially valuable for those needing information on small areas of the state," DBEDT Director Seiji Naya said. "We now have a wide range of data available for Hawaii's many ethnic groups down to the census block level."
The sessions will emphasize online research as the Internet is the primary method being used by the Census Bureau to distribute its 2000 data, only 10 percent of which will be published in hard-copy form.
Jerry Wong, information specialist with the Los Angeles office of the Census Bureau, will lead the workshops. They will include instruction in census terminology, obtaining information for specific needs and demonstrating the bureau's Web site, as well as a preview of additional social and economic data to be released later this year.
On March 11 the workshop will take place from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. at Kapiolani Community College, Mamane 102. Familiarity with the Internet is required. This class costs $20. To register, or for more information, call 522-8131.
On March 12 two sessions will be offered, the first from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. and the second from 12:30 to 3 p.m., at Kauai Community College, Business Building, room 111. Both session offer the same content. These workshops are free, but seating is limited. For registration and information, call 241-6390.
And on March 15 two more sessions will be offered, the first from 8:30 a.m. to noon and the second from 12:30 to 4 p.m., at No. 1 Capitol District Building, room 436. Both sessions offer the same content. These are also free, with limited seating. For registration and information, call 586-2466 or e-mail jnakamot@dbedt.hawaii.gov.