Demographic data refers to the quantifiable characteristics of a given population that are typically based on factors such as age, sex, and race. The federal government uses demographic data to learn more about the characteristics of the population of a certain part of the region or even the entire nation, which in turn is essential in policy formulation and development projects. For example, the number of public officials for each government administrative unit is normally determined by the demographics of a given locality (Ginsberg et al. 228). Additionally, for most US states, demographics and population size are routinely used to determine the allocation of important resources and infrastructure such as schools and roads. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay Essentially, demographic and census data are routinely used for almost all aspects of planning decisions. Census information usually contains data on the age, sex and distribution of a population as well as household composition and size, which are normally key in determining the needs of different parts of the country. For example, census data on housing can help government planners determine whether changes need to be made to the quality of housing and related facilities as well as plan the region's future housing needs based on percentage growth (Anderson 61). Data also lies in its ability to help government and society better prepare to address issues and demands related to future population growth, migration and aging. Forecasts and statistics derived from demographic studies, for example, can help the government develop an adequate and workable healthcare system, including effective preventative measures for some lifestyle diseases (Groves 212). Demographic processes and distributions also affect a wide range of social activities. Any entity, including the government, that intends to deal with a particular community, must first have adequate information regarding that particular community because in order for the entity to arrive at the most effective decisions about the community, the people in that community must first be analyzed and studied , through the use of demographic data. Assisting or helping solve community problems requires a lot of work and data about the community, usually in the form of demographic analysis or review of population statistics. For example, when it comes to social planning, local community leaders such as mayors and city councilors, together with the central government, can use population information to determine the need for services among different segments of the population. The demand for certain services is determined by the composition of the population and how this changes over time (Anderson 64). For example, the demand for health services for the elderly is normally determined by the average age of the population over time, marital status, occupations, income levels and education levels. Please note: this is just an example. Get a custom paper from our expert writers now. Get Custom Essays Planners can also use the composition of the present and future population in addition to its spatial distribution to identify the best locations to provide services that adequately meet the needs of the population. The government.