Opened: July 1, 2023
Closed: March 31, 2026
Results posted: May 15, 2026
Consultative engagement objectives
Statistics Canada looks for innovative and creative ways to better meet the data needs of Canadians. After each Census of Population, the agency publishes hundreds of data tables that provide key socio-economic information. Census data allows Canadians to function more effectively as citizens and decision makers.
Statistics Canada will develop a free online tool to help Canadians access census of population data more easily. The Census Data on Demand tool will allow Canadians to build and download data tables from the Statistics Canada website. To inform the user-centric development of this new tool, we needed to hear from Canadians.
What we heard
To support the user informed design and development of the Census Data on Demand tool, Statistics Canada carried out several research activities with members of the public. These included one round of exploratory interviews and four rounds of usability testing at key stages along the design and development process. In total, 54 participants took part in the research activities. This work reflects Statistics Canada's commitment to designing products with users in mind and being transparent about how they are developed.
The exploratory interviews helped the team to better understand users' needs and preferences, the challenges faced with current data access, and how Census of Population data is currently being accessed and used. This input helped guide the early design of the new tool. The usability testing then focused on how people navigate the tool, interact with its features, and complete common tasks. Feedback from participants led to changes in the wording, layout, flow, and interactive elements of the tool. This approach helps ensure the tool is easy to use, user friendly, and meets the needs of end users when it is launched. The launch date is anticipated in 2027.
Confidentiality
Statistics Canada is committed to respecting the privacy of participants. All personal information created, held or collected by the agency is protected by the Privacy Act. For more information on Statistics Canada's privacy policies, please consult the privacy notice.
Contact us
Individuals who wish to participate or obtain more information on this consultative study can contact us at statcan.ux-eu.statcan@statcan.gc.ca.