1.1. Contact organisation
NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF STATISTICS
1.2. Contact organisation unit
Department of Statistical Surveys in Households
1.3. Contact name
Confidential because of GDPR
1.4. Contact person function
Confidential because of GDPR
1.5. Contact mail address
16, Libertatii Ave., Sector 5, Bucharest, Romania
1.6. Contact email address
Confidential because of GDPR
1.7. Contact phone number
Confidential because of GDPR
1.8. Contact fax number
Confidential because of GDPR
2.1. Metadata last certified
13 February 2025
2.2. Metadata last posted
19 December 2024
2.3. Metadata last update
19 December 2024
3.1. Data description
The EU survey on the use of ICT in households and by individuals is an annual survey conducted since 2002. In Romania, it has been conducted since 2007.
In 2024, the survey collects data on the access to information and communication technologies (ICT), on the use of the internet, e-government and e-commerce, internet of things, as well as green ICT.
3.1.1. Survey name in national and English languages
National language: Ancheta privind accesul la Tehnologia Informaţiei şi Comunicaţiilor în gospodării.
English: Survey on Access to Information and Communications Technology in Households (“ICT usage in households and by individuals”).
Questionnaire(s) in national language(s) and the translation in English are available in the Annexes below.
3.2. Classification system
The following common concepts and definitions apply under the Integrated European Social Statistics (IESS):
- the International Standard Classification of Education (ISCED) 2011 published in the following breakdowns: low (ISCED levels 0-2: no formal education, primary education or lower secondary education), medium (ISCED levels 3-4: upper secondary or post-secondary non-tertiary education) and high (ISCED levels 5-6: tertiary programmes which normally need a successful completion of ISCED 3 or 4, or second-stage tertiary education leading to an advanced research qualification);
- the International Standard Classification for Occupation ISCO-08 at the 2-digit level;
- the Classification of Economic Activities (NACE Rev.2-2008), at section level;
- the Common classification of territorial units for statistics (NUTS 1) – finer granularity of NUTS 2 is provided on optional basis by some Member States;
- the SCL – Geographical code list;
- information about household income is provided at lower level of detail.
Additional classifications used in the national questionnaire: No additional classifications.
3.3. Coverage - sector
The ICT survey in households and by individuals covers those households having at least one member in the age group 16 to 74 years old. Internet access of households refers to the percentage of households that have an internet access, so that anyone in the household could use the internet.
3.3.1. Differences in scope at national level
No differences at national level.
3.4. Statistical concepts and definitions
The survey is collecting data of internet users, individuals who have used the internet in the three months prior to the survey.
This annual survey is used to benchmark ICT-driven developments, both by following developments for core variables over time and by looking in greater depth at other aspects at a specific point in time. While the survey initially concentrated on access and connectivity issues, its scope has subsequently been extended to cover a variety of subjects (for example, the use of internet, e-government, e-commerce, internet of things and green ICT) and socio-economic analysis (such as regional diversity, gender specificity, differences in age, education and the employment situation). The scope of the survey with respect to different technologies is also adapted to cover new product groups and means of delivering communication technologies to end-users.
For more details on the methodology applicable in each survey year, please consult the Compiler's Manual for the respective year.
Deviations from standard ICT concepts: No deviations
3.5. Statistical unit
Households and Individuals
3.6. Statistical population
In the ICT usage survey, the target population for the different statistical units is:
- individuals: all individuals aged 16 to 74;
- households: all (private) households with at least one member aged 16 to 74.
Target population composed of households and/or individuals:
- Number of households: 6 795 817
- Number of individuals: 14 262 632
3.6.1. Non-compulsory age groups
Non-compulsory age groups also included in the target population:
| No | Yes | Age scope | |
| Individuals younger than 16? | x | ||
| Individuals older than 74? | x |
3.6.2. Population not covered by the data collection
| Non-target population (the difference between the total population and the target population) | Households | Individuals |
|---|---|---|
| Approximate number of units outside the general scope of the survey (for example individuals younger than 16 or older than 74; households with all members over 74 years old). | 1599 | about 2900 |
| Estimate of the resulting percentage of under-coverage (non-covered population compared to the total country), if applicable | 15.23% |
3.7. Reference area
The survey covered whole country
3.8. Coverage - Time
Year 2024
3.9. Base period
Not applicable
Percentages of ‘Households’ and Percentages of ‘Individuals’
For most questions the reference period is the last three months before the interview. Questions in the modules on e-government and eID refer to the 'last year' before the interview.
Deviation from this statement: No deviation
5.1. Survey period
The fieldwork was realized in the period 08 May 2024 – 29 May 2024
6.1. Institutional Mandate - legal acts and other agreements
The legal basis for the 2024 EU survey on the use of ICT in households and by individuals is the Regulation (EU) 2019/1700 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 10 October 2019 establishing a common framework for European statistics relating to persons and households, based on data at individual level collected from samples (OJ L 261 I, 14 October 2019, p. 1), as implemented by the Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2023/1484 of 18 July 2023 specifying the technical items of the data set, establishing the technical formats for transmission of information and specifying the detailed arrangements and content of the quality reports on the organisation of a sample survey in the use of information and communication technologies domain for reference year 2024 in accordance with Regulation (EU) 2019/1700 of the European Parliament and of the Council (OJ L 182, 19 July 2023, pp. 100-149) and Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2023/1797 of 7 July 2023 supplementing Regulation (EU) 2019/1700 of the European Parliament and of the Council by specifying the number and titles of the variables for the use of information and communication technologies statistics domain for the reference year 2024 (OJ L 233, 21 September 2023).
Complementary national legislation constituting the legal basis for the survey on the use of ICT in households and by individuals: Law on the organization and functioning of official statistics in Romania, with subsequent amendments and completions: Law no. 266 of June 9 2009
6.2. Institutional Mandate - data sharing
Not applicable (Confidential microdata are not disclosed by NIS and Eurostat. Access to confidential microdata for scientific purposes may be granted on the basis of Commission Regulation 557/2013 and Regulation 223/2009 of the European Parliament and the Council on European statistics)
7.1. Confidentiality - policy
Law no 226/2009 on the organisation and functioning of official statistics in Romania, stipulates in Chapter X the confidentiality of statistical data. In this chapter art. 36 refer to Confidentiality of official statistical data and art.37 refer to Protection of statistical data.
Law on the organisation and functioning of official statistics in Romania is available at the following PARLAMENTUL ROMÂNIEI (insse.ro)
The EU member states, including Romania, apply the provisions of the Regulation (EU) 2016/679 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 27 April 2016 on the protection of natural persons with regard to the processing of personal data and on the free movement of such data, and repealing Directive 95/46/EC (General Data Protection Regulation /GDPR) in the production of official statistics.
In this regard, the staff of National Institute of Statistics (NIS), Territorial Directorates of Statistics (TDS) and the staff employed with a contract for the provision of data collection services sign Confidentiality Commitments and are well trained in the observance of the GDPR.
The staff of the National Institute of Statistics, including the people working in the territorial statistical directorates, as well as the persons temporarily involved in the collection (statistical operators) and processing of individual data, shall be under the obligation to observe the confidentiality of these data, during the activity and after the activity is completed. The previously mentioned staff shall not be allowed to use the individual data obtained in the activities that are specific to official statistics for personal purposes or for performing activities to the benefit of a third party.
Also, the NIS is fully certified to ensure compliance with the IT security framework of the SSE.
7.2. Confidentiality - data treatment
Ensuring data confidentiality starts with the collection until the dissemination.
All the questionnaires used by NIS to collect data have a clear statement that the information provided by the respondents are confidential and used only for statistical purposes. For the questionnaires that apply in the households, the NIS has clear information regarding the confidentiality, provided in the letters addressed to them.
Statistical operators collect ICT data using tablets with a security system and secure access based on a strong user and password, they are not allowed to give the tablet to anyone. The electronic questionnaires completed during the interview on a tablet are sent to the NIS immediately after their accuracy is verified by the survey supervisor from the territorial statistical offices via a secure line. All data collected on electronic tables are encrypted during the transmission process. Once submitted, the questionnaires disappear from the tablets.
A limited number of civil servants from NIS and TDS have access to the ICT database.
The NIS servers are managed by the IT department and are in secure rooms, with limited access, based on an access code assigned only to certain IT experts.
Procedures are implemented for all the activities carried out by the NIS, and they are applied by all the staff of the NIS and the Territorial Directorates of Statistics.
Statistical data processing (from the data entry to their publication) was done by the NIS and Territorial Statistical Directorates staff.
Dissemination of the statistical data is made in compliance with the norms statistical data confidentiality. The data are published in aggregate forms so as to comply with the provisions of confidentiality.
Anonymized microdata is provided only for the purpose of scientific research and for European statistics according to the European Regulations in force.
The microdata access for scientific purposes is strictly regulated and the steps to be followed are published on the NIS website of the following link: NIS microdata for scientific purposes.
8.1. Release calendar
NIS is responsible for:
- press releases "ACCESUL POPULAŢIEI LA TEHNOLOGIA INFORMAŢIILOR ŞI COMUNICAŢIILOR IN ANUL 2024” (9 December 2024 for reference year N),
- publication "ACCESUL POPULAŢIEI LA TEHNOLOGIA INFORMAŢIILOR ŞI COMUNICAŢIILOR IN ANUL 2024” (11 December 2024 for reference year N),
- online database (at the beginning of January 2025 for reference year N-1).
8.2. Release calendar access
Statistical publication catalogue 2024 (in Romanian).
8.3. Release policy - user access
In line with the Community legal framework and the European Statistics Code of Practice, Eurostat disseminates European statistics on Eurostat's website (see section 10 - 'Accessibility and clarity'), respecting professional independence and in an objective, professional and transparent manner in which all users are treated equitably. The detailed arrangements are governed by the Eurostat protocol on impartial access to Eurostat data for users. Additional information about microdata access is available in access to microdata.
At the national level, according to the official statistics law, no. 226/2009, the dissemination of statistical data respects the principle of impartiality according to which statistics must be developed, elaborated and disseminated in a neutral way, and all users must benefit from equal treatment.
Annual
10.1. Dissemination format - News release
Annual news release online in December of the survey year. Link: Press release public access to information and communication technology
10.2. Dissemination format - Publications
Annual publication Accesul populatiei la Tehnologia Informatiei si Comunicatiilor in December of the survey year (English version).
10.3. Dissemination format - online database
The disseminated data can be accessed free in database of NIS Romania.
10.3.1. Data tables - consultations
TEMPO Database from site of NIS Romania
10.4. Dissemination format - microdata access
Microdata are available for scientific purposes via Safe Center for access to microdata
10.5. Dissemination format - other
10.5.1. Metadata - consultations
10.6. Documentation on methodology
The Methodological Manuals used for the survey on ICT usage in households / by individuals are annually compiled by Eurostat in co-operation with Member States.
Metadatabase of site NIS Romania can be accessed on the link: Metadata Application
10.6.1. Metadata completeness - rate
100%
10.7. Quality management - documentation
Quality guidelines for official statistics in Romania
11.1. Quality assurance
As the coordinator of the Romanian National Statistical System, NIS has the mission of satisfiying to the greatest extent the need for information for all categories of users of statistical data by collecting, producing and disseminating relevant, accurate statistical data, coherent, timely and accessible, necessary for making decisions regarding economic development and social aspects of the country and regarding the realities of Romanian society. In the last time, NIS has made considerable progress in the direction of total quality management ensuring a culture of quality within the organization. The target in the following years is to obtain methodological and operational performances at levels comparable to the most advanced national statistical institutes from EU Member States. NIS defines the quality of the result in accordance with the SSE Quality Definition. In more terms broad, the quality of NIS results is evaluated in terms of "fitness for use". More precisely, the quality of the result is measured in terms of six quality components: relevance, accuracy, timeliness and punctuality, clarity and accessibility, coherence and comparability.
The main aspects regarding quality assurance were the analysis of European and national legislation and the study of the Eurostat methodology for ICT in order to comply with it.
During the design stage of statistical tools, we considered the following issues for designing the questionnaires: the topics included in the questionnaires have to be compliant with Regulation no. 1700/2019 of the European Parliament and of the Council and the Eurostat methodology which ensures data comparability at European level; questions are easy to understand and their sequence is following a logical flow; coverage of all possible answers (there are no answers that cannot be encoded). When designing the questionnaires, it was considered that they should be easy to fill out by the interviewer. When developing the survey manual all measures to ensure the quality terms for performing the survey were considered.
During the data collection stage, for quality assurance, a thorough training of the interviewers and transmission to the participating population of an Information letter regarding the survey organization by the NIS were taken into account.
In the data collection phase, the survey responsible in each Territorial Statistical Directorate had, among its attributions, to check the field activities performed by interviewers and survey controller, to replace the interviewers in case deviations from the survey rules were found or if they were not able to continue the data collection due to health problems. Also, to ensure the quality of collected data, the survey responsible was permanently in touch with the NIS survey responsible asking, if needed, additional methodological specifications for the specific situations encountered in the field. In case of particular situations encountered during the data collection, NIS team provided solutions that were sent simultaneously to all Territorial Statistical Directorates, for the attention of the ICT Survey responsible.
In order to ensure a good data collection, during the data collection phase, the survey controllers randomly checked the interviewing in households and, at the end of the data collection, they received the questionnaires from interviewers and checked together with them the number of questionnaires (integrity of materials received) and the way the answers in the questionnaires were encoded.
During the data checking, processing and validation process the following were considered:
- checking the integrity of the volume of completed questionnaires and those for which the data was not collected and that form the full volume of the sample;
- encoding the variables for which classifications are used;
- implementing an IT application to allow data checking at local and central level, in successive stages.
11.2. Quality management - assessment
NIS implement the quality management system based on the approach and elaboration of procedures and mechanisms in accordance with the EFQM/CAF excellence model, for evaluation continues to improve the quality of the organizational system. NIS identify, in a systematic and regular way, the strengths and weaknesses specific to the fields statistics and takes actions to improve and expand the implementation of effective solutions, respectively for the removal of deficiencies, where applicable. Good domestic and other countries' practices will be a valuable source for improvement total quality management in NIS.
While performing the Survey on Access to Information and Communications Technology in Households (ICT Survey), the NIS respected the following quality criteria:
- The National Institute of Statistics established, on a scientific basis, impartially and independently: variables, indicators, nomenclatures, classifications, methodologies, techniques recording, processing and dissemination of statistical data resulting from ICT Survey;
- For ICT Survey, the most relevant variables were selected to allow the production and dissemination of statistical data that meet the needs of national and international users;
- Adopting and ensuring, throughout the ICT Survey, the measures for the protection of individual data and their use for statistical purposes, only;
- Applying data verification methods and procedures so that statistical results reflect as accurately as possible the phenomena related to the assessment of the living conditions of the population by highlighting the interconnection and complementarity of various aspects such as: health status, education, occupational status, income, living conditions, economic situation of households;
- Reducing the statistical process as much as possible and publishing the results according to a calendar established at national level. However, due to the small number of staffs, the data dissemination process will be slightly delayed compared to the initial deadline;
- ICT Survey was made transparent, the main characteristics of statistical research and dissemination deadlines being presented in the Annual National Statistical Program approved by a Government Decision, the survey methodology was approved by the Methodological Advisory Committee consisting of: statisticians, academic experts, experts from research institutes, from ministries and public health institutes.
- Users will have access to the results of the ICT Survey in conditions of equality, simultaneity and without any discrimination, and the results will be accompanied by metadata in which the main characteristics of the survey will be presented (European legislation based on ICT, survey objectives, target population, data collection methods, sampling techniques and extension of applied results etc.).
- The ICT Survey implementation process ensures obtaining consistent and coherent data;
- ICT Survey was made in the conditions of optimal use of resources, to reduce costs taking into account matters such as:
- the establishment of an optimal number of variables in accordance with the needs of national and international information and the elimination of less important variables;
- the use of CAPI questionnaires for all research centers where we had interviewers who had competence in the use of tablets;
- payment of interviewers according to the data collected and in a differentiated way for the questionnaires completed in full or in part.
12.1. Relevance - User Needs
The main users of ICT statistical data are policy makers, research institutes, media, and students.
NIS collects, processes and disseminates official statistics to meet users' needs, both in terms of volume and in terms of quality and compliance with broadcasting deadlines, in a way objective, professional and transparent, through which all users are treated fairly and non-discriminatory.
NIS disseminates data and statistical information in an accessible format - agreed by users - and in an appropriate manner. The involvement of mass media ensures easy access to data and information statistics and contribute to the formation of a statistical culture of data users. Opportunities will be created for the intensification of collaboration/consultation with the different categories of users, for the knowledge and satisfaction of their ever increasing and diversified needs.
The main users of ICT statistical data are the following:
- Institutional users like DG CNECT, DG GROW, DG JUST, DG REGIO, DG JRC and other institutional users;
- International Telecommunication Union (ITU)
- Statistical users in Eurostat or in Romania to feed sectorial or transversal publications;
- Researchers having access to microdata;
- End users - including the media - interested in ICT data
12.2. Relevance - User Satisfaction
At national level, the current and future requirements and needs of users will always guide the statistical activities of the NIS. The level of user satisfaction is regularly monitored through satisfaction surveys a user’s and through other specific means. A very high proportion (77%) of statistical data users value quality NIS products as being at the level of statistics produced at European level. The results of the last user satisfaction survey are available on the NIS website (only in Romanian) and can be accessed at the following link: satisfaction survey 2022
However, the satisfaction survey did not specifically target the ICT survey, but the general fields of NIS statistics. NIS will continue the process of informing users about the quality of statistical products, through elaboration of metadata on the meaning of the indicators it produces and quality reports in European format or user-oriented, for all statistical domains.
At European level, Eurostat carried out an online general User Satisfaction Survey (USS) in the period between June and July 2022 to obtain a better knowledge about users, considering their needs and satisfaction with the services provided by Eurostat.
The survey has shown that ICT is of medium relevance for users.
For more information, please consult European Patent Office's User Satisfaction Survey 2022-2023. In conclusion, users were satisfied with overall quality of the service delivered by Eurostat.
12.3. Completeness
All of the variables contained in ICT household transmission format 2024 have been included in the microdata files excluding the variable Region of residence – NUTS 3.
12.3.1. Data completeness - rate
All required variables were transmitted (100%).
13.1. Accuracy - overall
According to Reg. (EU) 2019/1700 Annex II, precision requirements for all data sets are expressed in standard errors and are defined as continuous functions of the actual estimates and of the size of the statistical population in a country or in a NUTS 2 region. For the use of information and communication technology domain, the estimated standard errors of the following indicator are examined according to certain parameters set: Percentage of individuals who ordered goods or services over the Internet for private use in the last year.
13.2. Sampling error
The sampling error reflects the fact that only a particular sample was surveyed rather than the entire population. It is estimated by the standard error and can be expressed by the square root of the estimate of the sampling variance. The estimation of the sampling variance should ideally take into account the sampling design (e.g. the stratification).
Estimation method for the random variation of an estimator due to sampling: Taylor linearization
Basic formula: Since the proportion estimator is actually an estimator of the mean for an indicator variable, the procedure computes its variance and standard error according to the formula outlined in the section " Variance and Standard Error of the Mean”, chapter SURVEYMEANS procedure in SAS.
References on the estimation method are found in: Deville and Särndal (1992); Särndal(1992)
For variance estimation, the software used until 2022 round is SAS with Survey means procedure. Starting from 2023 round, we are performing the Taylor linearization method for variance estimation in the package ReGenesees (Zardetto, 2015, 2022) in R (R Core Team, 2022). References on the software:
- R Core Team (2023). R: A language and environment for statistical computing. R Foundation for Statistical Computing, Vienna, Austria.
- Zardetto D (2015). “ReGenesees: an Advanced R System for Calibration, Estimation and Sampling Error Assessment in Complex Sample Surveys.” Journal of Official Statistics, 31(2), 177 - 203.
Zardetto D (2023). “ReGenesees: R Evolved Generalized Software for Sampling Estimates and Errors in Surveys.” R package version 2.3.
13.2.1. Sampling error - indicators
Precision estimates for the question "Individuals having ordered goods or services for private use over the internet in the last 12 months" (individuals who ticked 'Within the last 3 months' or 'Between 3 months and a year ago' in in the question “When did you last buy or order goods or services for private use over the internet?”):
Number of respondents (absolute value for ‘Yes’ answers): 8290
Estimated proportion (in %): 56.12
Standard error (in percentage points): 1.08
Details of the breakdowns are available in document INFOSOC_HHNSI_A_RO_2024_0000 in the Annexes below.
13.3. Non-sampling error
See more details on non-sampling error below.
13.3.1. Coverage error
Over-coverage rates were estimated on the basis of the survey sample, as ratio between number of not-eligible units (ineligible out-of-scope and other ineligible) and number of sampled units. It is 15.69 %.
Under-coverage rate was estimated as the ratio between number of new permanent dwellings, built in the period end of 2011 year (the year of the last census) - end of 2023 year and the number of dwellings at the end of 2023 year. It is 6.25%
13.3.1.1. Over-coverage - rate
15.69%.
13.3.1.2. Common units - proportion
Not requested in the ICT survey.
13.3.2. Measurement error
Measurement errors:
The main methods of reducing measurement errors:
- Introductory letter of inquiry.
- Regular training (at least once a year).
- Feedback from interviewers (reports, debates, etc.).
- Monitoring direct contact with households.
- Remote monitoring via performance indicators.
- Online checks (for computer-assisted interviews).
Questionnaire design and testing:
The questionnaire is designed to ensure the quality of the data collected. The logical control conditions are met by introducing validation conditions in the questionnaire design. The validation rules act simultaneously with the completion of the questionnaire. They provide certain limits and patterns of answers so as to eliminate random answers or wrong manual entries. The deviation from the validation condition is notified by the investigator through the vibration of the tablet. These deviations can be stipulated either as warnings or as errors.
Interviewer training: In 2024, at central and at the territorial level (NIS Romania) there were training sessions face-to-face with interviewers and supervisors.
The following documents were sent by email at territorial level:
- the survey manual containing instructions for completing the questionnaire designed according to the Eurostat methodology;
- instructions for using the tablet and the CAPI collection application.
Proxy interview rates: 6.38%.
13.3.3. Non response error
Information about non-respondents: 9.08%
13.3.3.1. Unit non-response - rate
The unit non-response rate is the ratio of the number of in-scope non-respondents (= number of rejected interviews) to the number of eligible elements selected from the sampling frame.
Unit non-response rate for
- Households: 9.08%
- Individuals (aged 16-74): Not applicable
13.3.3.1.1. Unit non-response – sample sizes
| Number of households | Number of individuals (aged 16-74) |
Number of individuals (< 16) |
Number of individuals (> 74) |
|
| Gross sample [A]The number of households/individuals initially selected from the sampling frame (if not applicable, indicate why below the table) | 10188 | 16399 | ||
| Ineligible: out-of-scope [B] For example, when a selected household is not in the target population because all members are over 75 years old or when no dwelling exists at the selected address, or a selected individual has died between the reference data of the sampling frame at the moment of the interview. | 1599 | |||
| Number of eligible elements [C]Gross sample size corrected of the ineligible cases | 8589 | |||
| Net sample size or final sample [D]The net sample size (or final sample) corresponds to the number of households/individuals that can be used in the final database. | 7809 | 16346 | ||
| Unit response rate [E] = [D] / [C]The unit response rate is the ratio of the number of in-scope respondents (= the number of achieved interviews or the net sample size) to the number of eligible elements selected from the sampling frame. | 90.92% |
Comments, if any:
13.3.3.1.2. Unit non-response – methods, minimization and substitution
Methods used for dealing with unit non-response:
Unit non-responses are adjusted in the weighting procedure by:
- re-weighting with the inverse of the response rate on response homogeneous groups. These groups were built by the combination of the following variables: county and residence area of the household (stratum).
- re-weighting by calibration of the weights.
Methods used for minimizing unit non-response:
The measures taken to reduce the unit non-response are:
- advance notification in the form of a letter containing the main subjects of the survey, showing to the respondents how the data they are providing are being used and ensuring the confidentiality of data according to GDPR;
- establishing by mutual agreement with the respondents the date of interview;
- at least two visits to households which were not found at the first visit.
Substitution permitted: No.
Substitution rate (in %): 0%
13.3.3.2. Item non-response - rate
Items with low response rates (observed rates in %): 0%
13.3.4. Processing error
Not applicable.
13.3.5. Model assumption error
Not applicable
14.1. Timeliness
Date of data dissemination at national level: Date of data dissemination at national level: 11 December 2024.
14.1.1. Time lag - first result
Restricted from publication
14.1.2. Time lag - final result
Restricted from publication
14.2. Punctuality
The microdata file was transmitted to Eurostat within the term established by the Regulation (EU) 2019/1700 of the European Parliament and of the Council establishing a common framework for European statistics relating to persons and households, based on data at individual level collected from samples.
14.2.1. Punctuality - delivery and publication
There was not a delay between the first data delivery date and the final deadline in the legislation. The final data were validated on 5 October 2024.
15.1. Comparability - geographical
The ICT survey results are comparable both at national level (NUTS 0) and European level, the survey being designed and developed according to Eurostat methodology for the ICT Survey.
There is no problem of comparability across the country’s regions.
15.1.1. Asymmetry for mirror flow statistics - coefficient
Not relevant
15.2. Comparability - over time
Possible limitations in the use of data for comparisons over time: The length of comparable time series is from 2007, no series breaks occurred.
15.2.1. Length of comparable time series
The length of comparable time series depends on the module and variable considered within each of the modules of the survey.
15.3. Coherence - cross domain
Not applicable
15.3.1. Coherence - sub annual and annual statistics
Not applicable
15.3.2. Coherence - National Accounts
Not applicable
15.4. Coherence - internal
All statistics are coherent within the dataset provided by the country.
15.4.1. Survey questionnaire – mandatory questions
MANDATORY questions in the Eurostat model questionnaire 2024:
Table 15.4.1. of document INFOSOC_HHNSI_A_RO_2024_0000 in the Annexes lists the questions for which the coverage of subjects and characteristics reflected in the national questionnaire differs from Annex 2 of the Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2023/1797 of 7 July 2023.
15.4.2. Survey questionnaire – optional questions
Adoption of OPTIONAL questions and items in the Eurostat model questionnaire 2024:
Table 15.4.2. of document INFOSOC_HHNSI_A_RO_2024_0000 in the Annexes lists the optional questions from the annual Eurostat model questionnaire 2024 included in the national questionnaire and their coverage for age groups beyond the standard scope.
15.4.3. Survey questionnaire – additional questions at national level
Additional questions introduced in the national questionnaire in 2024: No additional questions have been added to Eurostat questionnaire.
15.4.4. Survey questionnaire – deviations
Effects of deviations from the routing used in the Eurostat model questionnaire: All statistics are coherent within the dataset.
Restricted from publication
17.1. Data revision - policy
NIS applies the Revision Policy based on the European Statistics Code of Practice and complying with the ESS Guidelines on the Revision Policy of the Principal European Economic Indicators in force.
Statistical data are revised according to the NIS Revision Calendar. The revision policy is available on the NIS website at the following link: Revision policy
17.2. Data revision - practice
The revised results are promptly transmitted and published in an open and transparent manner, mentioning the reasons for their occurrence.
In the case of unplanned revisions, a justification message is drawn up for users and the amplitude of the error is mentioned. NIS inform the statistical data users, in due time, on the significant methodological changes, so that the interpretation of statistical data resulting as consequence of applying the newly implemented methodologies would not entail a false perception of the presented phenomenon.
17.2.1. Data revision - average size
Not relevant
18.1. Source data
The source of the raw data is described with more details in the paragraphs below.
18.1.1. Sampling frame
The sample of ICT 2024 survey is drawn from sample frame named EMZOT i.e. the Multifunctional Sample of Territorial Areas comprising 792 research centres (i.e. primary sampling units), across the counties and sectors of Bucharest municipality (NUTS 3 level). Current sampling frame was carried out based on the data from the Population and Housing Census 2011 round.
The ICT survey is a stand-alone survey and is mandatory, according to national statistical law.
There are no shortcomings in terms of timeliness, geographical coverage or coverage of different subpopulations.
18.1.2. Sampling design
ICT sampling design is founded on a two-stage sampling technique.
In the first stage, a stratified random sample of centres of research, Primary Sampling Units (PSU’s) was designed after the 2011 Population and Housing Census, using as stratification criteria the residence area and county (NUTS-3 level) and selected based on a systematic selection algorithm. The primary sampling unit, corresponding to the selection of the master sample, is a group of census section. The including probabilities from the first stage were proportionally calculated with the size, expressed in number of permanent dwellings. In the second stage, dwellings are systematically selected from the initial sample of PSU’s: 12 from urban PSU’s and 14 from rural PSU’s.
The secondary (ultimate) sampling unit, corresponding to the selection of the survey sample, has been the dwelling (all households are included). The final sample consists of 10 188 dwelling units.
Number of individuals interviewed in the household: all members aged 16-74.
18.1.3. Net effective sample size
Restricted from publication
18.2. Frequency of data collection
Annual
18.3. Data collection
- Methods used to gather data: Data are collected by the CAPI method.
- Short description of the survey method: The information is collected by face-to-face interview at the home of the households under observation, the main role being the statistical operator, who must ensure the proper conduct of the interview (presentation of the purpose and specificity of the survey, appropriate wording of questions, possible explanations in case of misunderstandings etc.). Data collection is performed using statistical questionnaires designed according to the Eurostat methodology.
- Variables completed from an external source: Not applicable.
18.4. Data validation
The Survey Solution system is used for data collection on CAPI questionnaire. The data processing flow is as follows:
At the level of the interviewer:
- the primary validation of the data is performed when completing the questionnaire on the tablet due to the logical control conditions that ensure: checking the logical flows from the questionnaires, observing the correlations between the answers to different questions, identifying and eliminating illogical answers;
- corrections are made or explanations are given in case of questionnaires with errors / warnings;
At the level of survey's supervisor (regional / county statistical directions):
- the mode of completing the questionnaires is verified (it is rejected the questionnaires to the interviewer or it is validated);
- the variables are coded from the required format (text);
- integrity check is performed and data is validated;
At the central level:
- the data are validated and it is verified the conformity with the sample of ICT survey; following this inventory it is established whether the sample has been fully investigated, whether there are cases of response or non-response;
- the data processing procedure continues with the verification of the variables from a qualitative and quantitative point of view. It calculates the frequencies of the variables and checks whether the target population has answered the questions.
18.5. Data compilation
The Romanian NIS specific sampling plan for household surveys is a two-stage one.
The sampling plan relied on the building up, in the first stage, a sample frame i.e. the Multifunctional Sample of Territorial Areas ( so-called EMZOT sample) comprising 792 research centres (i.e. primary sampling units), across the counties and sectors of Bucharest municipality (NUTS 3 level). Current sampling frame was carried out based on the data from the Population and Housing Census 2011 round. The next one will be setup on between 2024-2025 using PHC round 2021 data.
In the second sampling stage, inside each primary sampling unit are selected, based on a systematic selection scheme, the secondary sampling units, and represented by dwellings.
Each secondary sampling unit involves the inclusion in the sample of all households and implicitly of all persons in the household.
The survey results are weighted considering the non-response adjustments and by using total number of households and residential population in the private households, both data available yearly at 1 January
18.5.1. Imputation - rate
For the target indicator "Individuals having ordered goods or services for private use over the internet in the last 12 months" (individuals who ticked 'Within the last 3 months' or 'Between 3 months and a year ago' in the question “When did you last buy or order goods or services for private use over the internet?”:
- Imputation rate (% of observations): Not applicable.
- Imputation rate (share of estimate): Not applicable.
18.5.2. Use of imputation methods
Methods used to impute item non-response: Not applicable.
18.5.3. Grossing-up procedures
Grossing up procedures have been applied to : Households.
Description of the weighting procedures:
- The weights are calculated in three steps. The first step assigns the inverse of the selection probabilities to each sampled dwelling unit. The second step adjusts for nonresponse at strata level, categorising the responding dwelling units by the following characteristics: county (NUTS 3 level) and urban/rural residency. The third and final steps consists of calibrating the secondary weights to the best latest available population totals by region / urban-rural residency, gender, 6 age groups and the households totals by region (NUTS 2 level), using the package ReGenesees (Zardetto, 2015, 2022) in R (R Core Team, 2022).
- In the calculation of weighting factors, the totals known for resident population level from current demographic statistics, recalculated on 2011 Census population, available at 01 January survey year are used.
- Each person belonging to a respondent household is receiving the household weight.
18.6. Adjustment
Not relevant
18.6.1. Seasonal adjustment
Not relevant
No further comments.
The EU survey on the use of ICT in households and by individuals is an annual survey conducted since 2002. In Romania, it has been conducted since 2007.
In 2024, the survey collects data on the access to information and communication technologies (ICT), on the use of the internet, e-government and e-commerce, internet of things, as well as green ICT.
19 December 2024
The survey is collecting data of internet users, individuals who have used the internet in the three months prior to the survey.
This annual survey is used to benchmark ICT-driven developments, both by following developments for core variables over time and by looking in greater depth at other aspects at a specific point in time. While the survey initially concentrated on access and connectivity issues, its scope has subsequently been extended to cover a variety of subjects (for example, the use of internet, e-government, e-commerce, internet of things and green ICT) and socio-economic analysis (such as regional diversity, gender specificity, differences in age, education and the employment situation). The scope of the survey with respect to different technologies is also adapted to cover new product groups and means of delivering communication technologies to end-users.
For more details on the methodology applicable in each survey year, please consult the Compiler's Manual for the respective year.
Deviations from standard ICT concepts: No deviations
Households and Individuals
In the ICT usage survey, the target population for the different statistical units is:
- individuals: all individuals aged 16 to 74;
- households: all (private) households with at least one member aged 16 to 74.
Target population composed of households and/or individuals:
- Number of households: 6 795 817
- Number of individuals: 14 262 632
The survey covered whole country
For most questions the reference period is the last three months before the interview. Questions in the modules on e-government and eID refer to the 'last year' before the interview.
Deviation from this statement: No deviation
According to Reg. (EU) 2019/1700 Annex II, precision requirements for all data sets are expressed in standard errors and are defined as continuous functions of the actual estimates and of the size of the statistical population in a country or in a NUTS 2 region. For the use of information and communication technology domain, the estimated standard errors of the following indicator are examined according to certain parameters set: Percentage of individuals who ordered goods or services over the Internet for private use in the last year.
Percentages of ‘Households’ and Percentages of ‘Individuals’
The Romanian NIS specific sampling plan for household surveys is a two-stage one.
The sampling plan relied on the building up, in the first stage, a sample frame i.e. the Multifunctional Sample of Territorial Areas ( so-called EMZOT sample) comprising 792 research centres (i.e. primary sampling units), across the counties and sectors of Bucharest municipality (NUTS 3 level). Current sampling frame was carried out based on the data from the Population and Housing Census 2011 round. The next one will be setup on between 2024-2025 using PHC round 2021 data.
In the second sampling stage, inside each primary sampling unit are selected, based on a systematic selection scheme, the secondary sampling units, and represented by dwellings.
Each secondary sampling unit involves the inclusion in the sample of all households and implicitly of all persons in the household.
The survey results are weighted considering the non-response adjustments and by using total number of households and residential population in the private households, both data available yearly at 1 January
The source of the raw data is described with more details in the paragraphs below.
Annual
Date of data dissemination at national level: Date of data dissemination at national level: 11 December 2024.
The ICT survey results are comparable both at national level (NUTS 0) and European level, the survey being designed and developed according to Eurostat methodology for the ICT Survey.
There is no problem of comparability across the country’s regions.
Possible limitations in the use of data for comparisons over time: The length of comparable time series is from 2007, no series breaks occurred.
