Internet use and digital skills survey

What kind of survey is it?

The information technology survey assesses how and for what purpose people in Estonia use computers and the internet. 

Who commissions the survey?

The survey is conducted in cooperation with the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Communications.

How often is the survey conducted?

The survey is carried out in the second quarter of each year. 

Why are the data needed?

The information and communication sector has an impact on the whole Estonian economy and development of society. The survey looks at which ICT tools are used and what is done with them. It also examines the use of Estonian public services, thereby providing valuable information on the services provided by the state. The results of the survey are used to reflect on the changes ahead and to plan action. The data are also useful for enterprises, associations, and federations. The indicators are comparable with those of surveys carried out at the same time in other EU countries.

How are the participants selected?

The survey sample is drawn at random from the population register. The survey population consists of 16–74-year-old permanent residents of Estonia and members of their household. The name and address of the person interviewed is known only to the interviewer and interviewers supervisor. The data collected are used in an aggregated form, no individual data are examined. Statistics Estonia ensures the protection of all respondents' data in accordance with the Official Statistics Act and the Personal Data Protection Act. 

Participation in the survey is voluntary and in completing it, people are expected to show a sense of civic duty: the state must help its citizens and citizens must help the state. Each person's circumstances and life journey are unique. Therefore, no one else can replace a person in the survey. A person has the right to refuse to participate in the survey, but in this case, a piece of the whole picture is lost. Participation in the survey is necessary so that the state can rely on truthful and reliable information when making decisions that affect us all.

How are the data collected?

Before the survey starts, a notification is sent to all the people in the sample, explaining the purpose of the survey and how they will be contacted. The notification is sent to the sampled person at the email address indicated in the population register. If no email address is available, a letter is sent by post to the address in the population register.

In this survey, data are collected through 

• an online questionnaire
• a phone interview (for best service, the call is recorded)

How can I make sure that it is a survey by Statistics Estonia?

This survey can be answered online at https://estat.stat.ee. The interview is conducted by a specially trained interviewer. The names of Statistics Estonia's interviewers can be checked . An individual who has been included in a survey can ask for the interviewer's proof of employment. If you have any questions, please contact our customer support by phone at +372 625 9300 or by e-mail at klienditugi [at] stat.ee (klienditugi[at]stat[dot]ee).

How are the participants thanked for their contribution?

All respondents are entered into a draw for five €50 gift vouchers. 

Where are the results published?

Data from the information technology survey are published in the statistical database under the headings Economy and Social life. The data are also available in the dedicated section on information and communication technologies.