Iraq Census 2024 Case Study

In general, census projects are inherently complex—especially in the case of Iraq, where the census was carried out after more than 30 years since the last one. The implementation of the 2024 General Census in Iraq faced a series of intricate challenges that required high coordination and a flexible, innovative response. Among the most notable challenges was the limited technical infrastructure, including the absence of equipped premises and modern data centers, in addition to a lack of devices and equipment necessary for a project of this size.
At the information infrastructure level, there was a clear need for updated reference data such as aerial imagery and accurate digital maps, as well as a lack of detailed estimates of workload, which affected resource and field operation planning.
The project’s limited timeframe—only eight months—was one of the most pressing factors, especially considering the national scale and the technical and logistical requirements of the census. The shortage of specialized human resources in national statistical work added another layer of complexity, requiring intensive training and qualification programs to ensure high-quality execution.
In a context heavily dependent on digital solutions, ensuring data security and integrity was a top priority. With limited communications infrastructure and the absence of a unified, secure network connecting tablets to data centers, alternative technological solutions had to be found to guarantee both efficiency and security.
Managing field operations on a national scale also demanded the development of innovative tools and procedures that would allow for effective organization of resources and real-time tracking of workflows, ensuring the census was executed accurately and smoothly despite the challenges.

RealSoft, as the main technical partner, provided a comprehensive set of smart solutions that contributed to overcoming the technical and organizational challenges accompanying the implementation of the 2024 Census in Iraq.
The company relied on its extensive experience in executing large-scale statistical projects, applying the best global methodologies and practices in this field. Its services included:

• Designing and implementing integrated digital platforms such as:
  • • Al-Khwarizmi for operational management
    • Falcon Map for supporting GIS (Geographic Information Systems)
    • Data Portal for data presentation and analysis
• Data processing and coding according to international statistical standards
• Data governance — establishing policies and mechanisms for secure and effective data management
• Operations engineering and management to ensure smooth and accurate field execution
• Integration of field services with central systems to enable real-time and secure information flow
• Use of GIS to define and distribute work zones and monitor progress
• Access and publishing services, including secure data access mechanisms and interactive publishing via specialized web portals
  These advanced digital solutions enabled both field and administrative teams to implement the project with high efficiency, within a flexible and secure technical environment fully integrated with the national statistical infrastructure.

The project demonstrated its effectiveness as a pioneering model for adopting digital solutions and advanced statistical methodologies in conducting national-level censuses. The integrated digital ecosystem that was designed and implemented contributed to improving the accuracy and speed of data collection and analysis, while ensuring the highest levels of security and reliability.
This unprecedented experience reflected a major transformation in the execution of large-scale statistical projects in Iraq. It affirmed the readiness of national institutions to adopt digital transformation as a strategic choice and showcased the role of technology in supporting development and data-driven sustainable planning.