Renewal of Currently Approved Information Collection: Comment Request for Customer Satisfaction and Opinion Surveys, and Focus Group Interviews, 51472-51475 [2017-24087]
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Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 213 / Monday, November 6, 2017 / Notices
data, the plan for analyzing the FY 2016
data, and the link to the FY 2016
Government-wide inventory on the
Department of Transportation’s
homepage at the following link: https://
www.transportation.gov/assistantsecretary-administration/procurement/
service-contract-inventory. Questions
regarding the Service Contract Inventory
should be directed to Diane Morrison in
the Office of the Senior Procurement
Executive at 202–366–4960 or
diane.morrison@dot.gov.
Dated: October 3, 2017.
Gregory Cate,
Deputy Director, Office of Senior Procurement
Executive.
[FR Doc. 2017–24077 Filed 11–3–17; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–9X–P
DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY
United States Mint
Renewal of Currently Approved
Information Collection: Comment
Request for Customer Satisfaction and
Opinion Surveys, and Focus Group
Interviews
United States Mint, Treasury.
Notice and request for
comments.
AGENCY:
ACTION:
The United States Mint, a
bureau of the Department of the
Treasury, invites the general public and
other Federal agencies to take this
opportunity to comment on currently
approved information collection 1525–
0012, as required by the Paperwork
Reduction Act of 1995, The United
States Mint is soliciting comments on
the United States Mint customer
satisfaction and opinion surveys, and
focus group interviews.
DATES: Written comments should be
received on or before November 30,
2017, to be assured of consideration.
ADDRESSES: Direct all written comments
to Mary Ann Scharbrough, Records
Officer, Office of the Director; United
States Mint; 801 9th Street NW.,
Washington, DC 20220; (202) 384–5805
(this is not a toll-free number);
mary.scharbrough@usmint.treas.gov.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Requests for additional information or
copies of the information collection
package should be directed to Mary Ann
Scharbrough, Records Officer, Office of
the Director; United States Mint; 801 9th
Street NW.; Washington, DC 20220;
(202) 384–5805 (this is not a toll-free
number); mary.scharbrough@
usmint.treas.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
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SUMMARY:
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Title: United States Mint Customer
Satisfaction and Opinion Surveys, and
Focus Group Interviews.
OMB Number: 1525 0012.
Abstract: The proposed customer
satisfaction and opinion surveys and
focus group interviews will allow the
United States Mint to assess the
acceptance of, potential demand for,
and barriers to acceptance/increased
demand for current and future products,
and the needs and desires of customers
for more efficient, economical services.
Current Actions: The United States
Mint conducts customer satisfaction and
opinion surveys, and focus group
interviews to measure customer opinion
and assess acceptance of, the potential
demand for, and barriers to acceptance/
increased demand for United States
Mint products, and to determine the
level of satisfaction of United States
Mint customers and the general public.
Type of Review: Renewal of a
currently approved information
collection.
Affected Public: The affected public
includes serious and casual numismatic
collectors, dealers, and persons in the
numismatic business, and the general
public.
Estimated Number of Respondents:
The estimated number of annual
respondents is 50,136.
Estimated Total Annual Burden
Hours: The estimated number of annual
burden hours is 15,564.
Requests for Comments: Comments
submitted in response to this notice will
be summarized and/or included in the
request for Office of Management and
Budget approval. All comments will
become a matter of public record.
Comments are invited on: (a) Whether
the collection of information is
necessary for the proper performance of
the functions of the agency, including
whether the information shall have
practical utility; (b) the accuracy of the
agency’s estimate of the burden of the
collection of information; (c) ways to
enhance the quality, utility, and clarity
of the information to be collected; (d)
ways to minimize the burden of the
collection of information on
respondents, including through the use
of automated collection techniques or
other forms of information technology;
and (e) estimates of capital or start-up
costs and costs of operation,
maintenance, and purchase of services
to provide information.
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Authority: Pursuant to 31 U.S.C. 5111,
5112, 5135, 5136, and 31 CFR 92.
Jean Gentry,
Chief Counsel, United States Mint.
SUPPORTING STATEMENT A
UNITED STATES MINT GENERIC
CLEARANCE
(December 1, 2017–December 1, 2020)
1525–0012
A. JUSTIFICATION
A1. CIRCUMSTANCES
NECESSITATING THE COLLECTION
OF INFORMATION
This is a request for a three-year generic
clearance to conduct customer
satisfaction and opinion surveys, and
focus group interviews. This clearance
will allow the United States Mint to
comply with Executive Order 12862 and
assist the United States Mint in
fulfilling its mission.
The mission of the United States Mint
is to serve the American people by
manufacturing and distributing the
highest quality circulating coinage and
national medals for the Nation to
conduct its trade and commerce, and
providing security over assets entrusted
to the United States Mint.
The United States Mint is responsible
for producing proof, uncirculated,
circulated and commemorative coins,
and medals, and platinum, gold and
silver bullion coins in response to
programs legislated by Congress in
support of domestic trade and
commerce, civic, philanthropic, and
national organizations.
To effectively accomplish the goals of
these programs, it is crucial for the
United States Mint to know and
maintain awareness of customer
preferences and needs by continually
monitoring customer satisfaction.
However, because the time period
between program authorization,
production, and product shipment is
often short, the United States Mint has
not always had adequate time to obtain
needed information about customer
preferences and market conditions.
Therefore, the use of generic clearance
to conduct customer satisfaction and
opinion surveys, and focus group
interviews will allow the United States
Mint to quickly obtain useful data to
create more profitable programs and to
provide better service and products to
the American public.
The Supporting Statement contains
authorization under which these data
collections efforts are implemented.
Supporting Statement B contains a list
of anticipated projects that may be
submitted for approval through the
generic clearance process between
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Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 213 / Monday, November 6, 2017 / Notices
November 1, 2017 and November 1,
2020.
This clearance covers data collection
efforts by the United States Mint
Directorates. An internal review of all
proposed data collections will be
performed to ensure the following:
• Consistency with United States Mint
mission and strategic objectives.
• Appropriate priority within United
States Mint’s Strategic Plan and/or
United States Mint annual business
plan.
• Technical adequacy in issues such as
frame, sample selection, response
rates, quality control in data
gathering, recording, and analysis.
• Minimizes burden on respondents.
• Confidentiality of individual
responses.
• Consistency with this generic
clearance.
• Consistency with applicable laws and
regulations.
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A2. USE OF DATA
A variety of data collection methods
will be employed, including web-based
surveys, telephone CATI systems
(computer-assisted telephone
interviews), focus group interviews, and
other appropriate means. The
information will be used to:
• Determine customer opinions about
the quality of products, pricing,
delivery, and other services provided
by the United States Mint.
• Determine customer needs and wants
in regard to future products and
services.
• Define the next steps/actions plans to
improving customer satisfaction and
United State Mint sales operations.
A3. USE OF INFORMATION
TECHNOLOGY TO REDUCE BURDEN
• In past instances, the United States
Mint has used CATI systems and webbased surveys (both provided by
contractors) for data collection efforts.
The CTI systems and web-based
surveys increase efficiency and
validity of surveys and decrease the
time required for each interview and,
consequently, the overall burden on
respondents. These methodologies
allow the computer to perform a
number of critical quality assurance
routines that are monitored by survey
supervisors. These include tracking
average interview length and refusal
and termination rate.
A4. EFFORTS TO IDENTIFY
DUPLICATION
Survey questions will address United
States Mint related products and do not
duplicate the efforts of other agencies/
organizations. Our internal review and
approval process ensures that
duplication of data gathering within the
United States Mint is eliminated.
Additionally, no other organization
can conduct a survey of the United
States Mint customers because our
customer list is unique and secured by
the United States Mint.
A5. METHODS TO MINIMIZE BURDEN
ON SMALL BUSINESSES OR OTHER
SMALL ENTITIES
The data collections for the most part
will be targeted to individuals.
Although some customers are coin and
hobby dealers that may operate a small
business, all information requests will
be voluntary. In addition, respondents
will rarely be required to consult or
access their records for detailed factual
information.
A6. CONSEQUENCES OF LESS
FREQUENT COLLECTION ON
FEDERAL PROGRAMS OR POLICY
ACTIVITIES
The United States Mint would not be in
compliance with Executive Order 12862
if some of the collection efforts were not
undertaken. Also, with the United
States Mint operating as a self-funding
agency, the information and the changes
resulting from data collections are
crucial to United States Mint
numismatic sales efforts.
A7. SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCE
REQUIRING DATA COLLECTION TO
BE INCONSISTENT WITH GUIDELINES
IN 5 CFR 1320.6
No special circumstances require the
collection to be conducted in a manner
inconsistent with the guidelines in 5
CFR 1320.6.
A8. CONSULTATION WITH
INDIVIDUALS OUTSIDE OF THE
AGENCY ON AVAILABILITY OF DATA,
FREQUENCY OF COLLECTION,
CLARITY OF INSTRUCTION AND
FORMS, AND DATA ELEMENTS
The United States Mint collaborates
with professional marketing firms and
contractors with expertise in marketing
research, statistical analysis, and
customer driven marketing. Their
assistance is utilized in development,
administration, and analysis research.
A9. EXPLANATION OF DECISION TO
PROVIDE PAYMENT OR GIFT TO
RESPONDENTS
The United States Mint has
compensated respondents only when it
was necessary as an incentive for their
extensive time or expertise. Specific
justification has accompanied such
requests. In the future, the United States
Mint will use compensation for
respondents only when it is deemed
necessary.
A10. ASSURANCE OF
CONFIDENTIALITY OF RESPONSES
Survey respondents contacted by mail,
fax, Internet, or some other form of
written communication will be advised
on the survey form, cover letter, or other
accompanying document that
participation is voluntary and that the
data provided will be secured. As part
of the introduction to a data gathering
effort during telephone or personal
interviews, the interviewer will inform
the respondents that the survey is
voluntary and that each individual’s
responses will be secured. Focus group
participants will verbally receive similar
assurances during opening statements of
the interview session.
A11. JUSTIFICATION OF SENSITIVE
QUESTIONS
Not applicable. Sensitive information is
not collected.
A12. ESTIMATED BURDEN OF
INFORMATION COLLECTION
The following table is a breakdown of
the estimated number of hours for a
three-year generic clearance and
estimated number of respondents for a
three-year generic clearance.
However, due to changes in the
market and possible new coin programs
legislated by Congress, this figure could
increase.
Estimated
number
of hours
(3 years)
Research
Naxion (Formally known as ‘‘Nat’l Analysts Worldwide’’) Customer Acquisition Research ...................................
Naxion (Formally known as ‘‘Nat’l Analysts Worldwide’’) General Analytics Research .........................................
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5,451
3,357
Estimated
number of
respondents
(3 years)
12,000
25,200
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Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 213 / Monday, November 6, 2017 / Notices
Estimated
number
of hours
(3 years)
Research
Estimated
number of
respondents
(3 years)
Naxion (Formally known as ‘‘Nat’l Analysts Worldwide’’) Customer Satisfaction Tracking Research ...................
Naxion (Formally known as ‘‘Nat’l Analysts Worldwide’’) Focus Group Research .................................................
Web Usability Research ..........................................................................................................................................
2,700
3,840
216
10,800
1,920
216
Total ..................................................................................................................................................................
15,564
50,136
A13. ESTIMATED TOTAL ANNUAL
COST BURDEN TO RESPONDENTS
A14. ESTIMATED ANNUALIZED COST
TO THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT
The following table is a breakdown of
the estimated cost to the United States
Mint based on previous experience.
Estimates of the cost burden to
respondents is unknown at this time.
Annual
estimated
cost
Research
Naxion (Formally known
Naxion (Formally known
Naxion (Formally known
Naxion (Formally known
Web Usability Research
Total
estimated—
3 years
as ‘‘Nat’l Analysts Worldwide’’) Customer Acquisition Research ...................................
as ‘‘Nat’l Analysts Worldwide’’) General Analytics Research .........................................
as ‘‘Nat’l Analysts Worldwide’’) Customer Satisfaction Tracking Research ...................
as ‘‘Nat’l Analysts Worldwide’’) Focus Group Research .................................................
..........................................................................................................................................
$399,000
400,000
240,000
415,000
100,000
$1,197,000
1,200,000
720,000
1,245,000
300,000
Total ..................................................................................................................................................................
1,554,000
4,662,000
A15. REASON FOR CHANGE IN
BURDEN
SUPPORTING STATEMENT B
UNITED STATES MINT GENERIC
CLEARANCE
There is no change.
(December 1, 2017–December 1, 2020)
1525–0012
A16. PLANS FOR TABULATION
STATISTICAL ANALYSIS AND
PUBLICATION
Information from data collection will
not be published for statistical purposes.
A17. REASONS WHY DISPLAYING
THE OMB EXPIRATION DATE IS
INAPPROPRIATE
Displaying the expiration date may
cause problems with respondents for
data collection programs that overlap
the three-year authorization periods. In
addition, respondents might be declined
to refuse to participate if the form
carries an authorization date that is
expired or soon to expire.
A18. EXCEPTIONS TO THE
CERTIFICATION STATEMENT ON
OMB FORM 83–1
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Not applicable. There are no exceptions
for certification.
B. COLLECTION OF INFORMATION
EMPLOYING STATISTICAL
METHODS
B1. UNIVERSE AND RESPONDENT
SELECTION
Surveys covered under this generic
clearance will vary with regard to the
universe and respondent selection. The
potential universe for some surveys will
include our active and inactive
customers, while others may include far
fewer.
However, because the United States
Mint is attempting to expand its
numismatic markets and practically all
Americans are users of circulating
coinage, the universe for some surveys
may include the entire United States
population base, with a statistically
valid sample selected for research.
B2. PROCEDURES FOR COLLECTING
INFORMATION
The specific method of data collection
for each survey will be provided to
OMB before each survey is conducted.
B3. METHODS TO MAXIMIZE
RESPONSE
The United States Mint has found that
by sending an advance notice letter to
those customers participating in a
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telephone survey the rate of response
can be increased and will employ this
technically when possible and cost
effective. The United States Mint will
employ procedures to review and test
questions by survey experts to ensure
that questions and instructions are clear,
relevant, and unambiguous. Surveys
employing non-response follow-up
techniques will use multiple contacts by
telephone and/or additional mailing of
the questionnaire to ensure an adequate
response.
B4. TESTING OF PROCEDURES
In most cases, a pretest of the data
collection instruments will be
conducted prior to its use. Pretests will
include review by knowledgeable
United States Mint staff and
consultants. In the case of telephone
surveys, the pretest will include
monitoring of interviewers and
respondents by United States Mint staff
and/or consultants prior to the actual
survey. No pretest will include
provisions for contacting more than
nine respondents.
B5. CONTACTS FOR STATISTICAL
ASPECTS AND DATA COLLECTION
The contact person for questions
regarding any statistical aspects
employed or data collection procedures
used will be provided to OMB before
each survey. Administrative questions
regarding the Mint use of this generic
clearance should be directed to Manoj
Pillai; Numismatic and Bullion
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Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 213 / Monday, November 6, 2017 / Notices
Directorate, 5th Floor; United States
Mint; 801 9th Street NW.; Washington,
DC 20220.
[FR Doc. 2017–24087 Filed 11–3–17; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4810–37–P
U.S.-CHINA ECONOMIC AND
SECURITY REVIEW COMMISSION
Notice of Open Public Event
U.S.-China Economic and
Security Review Commission.
ACTION: Notice of open public event.
AGENCY:
Notice is hereby given of the
following open public event of the U.S.China Economic and Security Review
Commission.
The Commission is mandated by
Congress to investigate, assess, and
report to Congress annually on ‘‘the
national security implications of the
economic relationship between the
United States and the People’s Republic
of China.’’ Pursuant to this mandate, the
Commission will hold a public release
of its 2017 Annual Report to Congress
in Washington, DC on November 15,
2017.
SUMMARY:
The release is scheduled for
Wednesday, November 15, 2017 from
9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.
ADDRESSES: Hart Senate Office Building,
Room 902, Washington, DC. Please
check the Commission’s Web site at
www.uscc.gov for possible changes to
the event schedule. Reservations are not
required to attend.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Any
member of the public seeking further
information concerning the event
should contact Leslie Tisdale, 444 North
Capitol Street NW., Suite 602,
Washington, DC 20001; telephone: 202–
624–1496, or via email at ltisdale@
uscc.gov. Reservations are not required
to attend.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Topics to Be Discussed: The
Commission’s 2017 Annual Report to
Congress addresses the following topics:
• U.S.-China Economic and Trade
Relations, including: Year in Review:
Economics Trade; Chinese Investment
in the United States; and U.S. Access to
China’s Consumer Market.
• U.S.-China Security Relations,
including: Year in Review: Security and
Foreign Affairs; China’s Military
Modernization in 2017; and Hotspots
along China’s Maritime Periphery.
• China and the World, including:
China and Continental Southeast Asia;
China and Northeast Asia; China and
Taiwan; China and Hong Kong; and
China’s Domestic Information Controls,
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DATES:
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Global Media Influence, and Cyber
Diplomacy.
• China’s High-Tech Development,
including China’s Pursuit of Dominance
in Computing, Robotics, and
Biotechnology; and China’s Pursuit of
Advanced Weapons.
Authority: Congress created the U.S.China Economic and Security Review
Commission in 2000 in the National
Defense Authorization Act (Pub. L. 106–
398), as amended by Division P of the
Consolidated Appropriations
Resolution, 2003 (Pub. L. 108–7), as
amended by Public Law 109–108
(November 22, 2005), as amended by
Public Law 113–291 (December 19,
2014).
Dated: November 1, 2017.
Michael Danis,
Executive Director, U.S.-China Economic and
Security Review Commission.
[FR Doc. 2017–24120 Filed 11–3–17; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 1137–00–P
DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS
AFFAIRS
Privacy Act of 1974; System of
Records
Department of Veterans Affairs.
Rescindment of systems of
records notices.
AGENCY:
ACTION:
The Department of Veterans
Affairs (VA) is rescinding nine outdated
systems of records.
DATES: VA has ceased maintaining the
systems of records listed in this notice.
Rescindment is effective November 6,
2017.
ADDRESSES: Written comments may be
submitted through
www.Regulations.gov; by mail or handdelivery to Director, Regulation Policy
and Management (00REG), Department
of Veterans Affairs, 810 Vermont Ave.
NW., Room 1064, Washington, DC
20420; or by fax to (202) 273–9026 (this
is not a toll-free number). Comments
should indicate that they are submitted
in response to ‘‘Rescindment of Systems
of Records Notices’’. All comments
received will be available for public
inspection in the Office of Regulation
Policy and Management, Room 1063B,
between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 4:30
p.m., Monday through Friday (except
holidays). Please call (202) 461–4902 for
an appointment (this is not a toll-free
number.) In addition, comments may be
viewed online at www.Regulations.gov.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: VA
Privacy Service (005P1A), Office of
Privacy Information and Identity
Protection, Office of Privacy and Risk,
SUMMARY:
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Office of Information and Technology,
Department of Veterans Affairs, 810
Vermont Ave. NW., Washington, DC
20420, (202) 273–5070 (this is not a tollfree number).
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The
Privacy Act of 1974, U.S.C. 552a(e)(1)
provides that an agency may only
collect or maintain in its records
information about individuals that is
relevant and necessary to accomplish a
purpose that is required by statute or
executive order. VA has stopped
maintaining the systems listed and
expunged the records in accordance
with the requirements in the System of
Records Notices and the applicable
records retention or disposition
schedules approved by the National
Archives and Records Administration.
System Names, Numbers and Histories
1. Department of Medicine and
Surgery Engineering Employee
Management Information Records—VA
(07VA138). Categories of individuals
covered by the system were VA
engineering employees with the
Department of Medicine and Surgery.
Records in the system included personal
identification information, data on cost
center and hourly wage rate, and work
location. System was published in the
Federal Register prior to 1995 and was
revised in part on October 19, 2009, at
74 FR 53585.
2. Individual Requests for Information
from Appellate Records—VA (12VA01).
Categories of individuals covered by the
system included persons requesting
information under the Freedom of
Information Act and the Privacy Act.
This system contained requests for
information, responses to requests, and
loose-leaf log books and was published
in the Federal Register prior to 1995.
3. Personnel Registration under
Controlled Substance Act—VA
(28VA119). Categories of individuals
covered by the system were health
practitioners authorized to prescribe
drugs under the Controlled Substance
Act. Categories of records in the system
were registration card records
containing the information necessary for
verification of employee control under
the Controlled Substance Act; employee
name, social security number, and
signature; and Drug Enforcement
Agency control number assigned by
either the State or the VA, depending on
local policy as required by the Act. This
system was published in the Federal
Register prior to 1995 and was revised
in part on October 19, 2009, at 74 FR
53585.
4. Electronic Document Management
System (EDMS)—VA (92VA045):
Records were maintained in electronic
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]]>Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 82, Number 213 (Monday, November 6, 2017)]
[Notices]
[Pages 51472-51475]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2017-24087]
=======================================================================
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY
United States Mint
Renewal of Currently Approved Information Collection: Comment
Request for Customer Satisfaction and Opinion Surveys, and Focus Group
Interviews
AGENCY: United States Mint, Treasury.
ACTION: Notice and request for comments.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: The United States Mint, a bureau of the Department of the
Treasury, invites the general public and other Federal agencies to take
this opportunity to comment on currently approved information
collection 1525-0012, as required by the Paperwork Reduction Act of
1995, The United States Mint is soliciting comments on the United
States Mint customer satisfaction and opinion surveys, and focus group
interviews.
DATES: Written comments should be received on or before November 30,
2017, to be assured of consideration.
ADDRESSES: Direct all written comments to Mary Ann Scharbrough, Records
Officer, Office of the Director; United States Mint; 801 9th Street
NW., Washington, DC 20220; (202) 384-5805 (this is not a toll-free
number); mary.scharbrough@usmint.treas.gov.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Requests for additional information or
copies of the information collection package should be directed to Mary
Ann Scharbrough, Records Officer, Office of the Director; United States
Mint; 801 9th Street NW.; Washington, DC 20220; (202) 384-5805 (this is
not a toll-free number); mary.scharbrough@usmint.treas.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Title: United States Mint Customer Satisfaction and Opinion
Surveys, and Focus Group Interviews.
OMB Number: 1525 0012.
Abstract: The proposed customer satisfaction and opinion surveys
and focus group interviews will allow the United States Mint to assess
the acceptance of, potential demand for, and barriers to acceptance/
increased demand for current and future products, and the needs and
desires of customers for more efficient, economical services.
Current Actions: The United States Mint conducts customer
satisfaction and opinion surveys, and focus group interviews to measure
customer opinion and assess acceptance of, the potential demand for,
and barriers to acceptance/increased demand for United States Mint
products, and to determine the level of satisfaction of United States
Mint customers and the general public.
Type of Review: Renewal of a currently approved information
collection.
Affected Public: The affected public includes serious and casual
numismatic collectors, dealers, and persons in the numismatic business,
and the general public.
Estimated Number of Respondents: The estimated number of annual
respondents is 50,136.
Estimated Total Annual Burden Hours: The estimated number of annual
burden hours is 15,564.
Requests for Comments: Comments submitted in response to this
notice will be summarized and/or included in the request for Office of
Management and Budget approval. All comments will become a matter of
public record. Comments are invited on: (a) Whether the collection of
information is necessary for the proper performance of the functions of
the agency, including whether the information shall have practical
utility; (b) the accuracy of the agency's estimate of the burden of the
collection of information; (c) ways to enhance the quality, utility,
and clarity of the information to be collected; (d) ways to minimize
the burden of the collection of information on respondents, including
through the use of automated collection techniques or other forms of
information technology; and (e) estimates of capital or start-up costs
and costs of operation, maintenance, and purchase of services to
provide information.
Authority: Pursuant to 31 U.S.C. 5111, 5112, 5135, 5136, and 31
CFR 92.
Jean Gentry,
Chief Counsel, United States Mint.
SUPPORTING STATEMENT A
UNITED STATES MINT GENERIC CLEARANCE
(December 1, 2017-December 1, 2020) 1525-0012
A. JUSTIFICATION
A1. CIRCUMSTANCES NECESSITATING THE COLLECTION OF INFORMATION
This is a request for a three-year generic clearance to conduct
customer satisfaction and opinion surveys, and focus group interviews.
This clearance will allow the United States Mint to comply with
Executive Order 12862 and assist the United States Mint in fulfilling
its mission.
The mission of the United States Mint is to serve the American
people by manufacturing and distributing the highest quality
circulating coinage and national medals for the Nation to conduct its
trade and commerce, and providing security over assets entrusted to the
United States Mint.
The United States Mint is responsible for producing proof,
uncirculated, circulated and commemorative coins, and medals, and
platinum, gold and silver bullion coins in response to programs
legislated by Congress in support of domestic trade and commerce,
civic, philanthropic, and national organizations.
To effectively accomplish the goals of these programs, it is
crucial for the United States Mint to know and maintain awareness of
customer preferences and needs by continually monitoring customer
satisfaction.
However, because the time period between program authorization,
production, and product shipment is often short, the United States Mint
has not always had adequate time to obtain needed information about
customer preferences and market conditions.
Therefore, the use of generic clearance to conduct customer
satisfaction and opinion surveys, and focus group interviews will allow
the United States Mint to quickly obtain useful data to create more
profitable programs and to provide better service and products to the
American public.
The Supporting Statement contains authorization under which these
data collections efforts are implemented. Supporting Statement B
contains a list of anticipated projects that may be submitted for
approval through the generic clearance process between
[[Page 51473]]
November 1, 2017 and November 1, 2020.
This clearance covers data collection efforts by the United States
Mint Directorates. An internal review of all proposed data collections
will be performed to ensure the following:
Consistency with United States Mint mission and strategic
objectives.
Appropriate priority within United States Mint's Strategic
Plan and/or United States Mint annual business plan.
Technical adequacy in issues such as frame, sample selection,
response rates, quality control in data gathering, recording, and
analysis.
Minimizes burden on respondents.
Confidentiality of individual responses.
Consistency with this generic clearance.
Consistency with applicable laws and regulations.
A2. USE OF DATA
A variety of data collection methods will be employed, including web-
based surveys, telephone CATI systems (computer-assisted telephone
interviews), focus group interviews, and other appropriate means. The
information will be used to:
Determine customer opinions about the quality of products,
pricing, delivery, and other services provided by the United States
Mint.
Determine customer needs and wants in regard to future
products and services.
Define the next steps/actions plans to improving customer
satisfaction and United State Mint sales operations.
A3. USE OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY TO REDUCE BURDEN
In past instances, the United States Mint has used CATI
systems and web-based surveys (both provided by contractors) for data
collection efforts. The CTI systems and web-based surveys increase
efficiency and validity of surveys and decrease the time required for
each interview and, consequently, the overall burden on respondents.
These methodologies allow the computer to perform a number of critical
quality assurance routines that are monitored by survey supervisors.
These include tracking average interview length and refusal and
termination rate.
A4. EFFORTS TO IDENTIFY DUPLICATION
Survey questions will address United States Mint related products and
do not duplicate the efforts of other agencies/organizations. Our
internal review and approval process ensures that duplication of data
gathering within the United States Mint is eliminated.
Additionally, no other organization can conduct a survey of the
United States Mint customers because our customer list is unique and
secured by the United States Mint.
A5. METHODS TO MINIMIZE BURDEN ON SMALL BUSINESSES OR OTHER SMALL
ENTITIES
The data collections for the most part will be targeted to individuals.
Although some customers are coin and hobby dealers that may operate a
small business, all information requests will be voluntary. In
addition, respondents will rarely be required to consult or access
their records for detailed factual information.
A6. CONSEQUENCES OF LESS FREQUENT COLLECTION ON FEDERAL PROGRAMS OR
POLICY ACTIVITIES
The United States Mint would not be in compliance with Executive Order
12862 if some of the collection efforts were not undertaken. Also, with
the United States Mint operating as a self-funding agency, the
information and the changes resulting from data collections are crucial
to United States Mint numismatic sales efforts.
A7. SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCE REQUIRING DATA COLLECTION TO BE INCONSISTENT
WITH GUIDELINES IN 5 CFR 1320.6
No special circumstances require the collection to be conducted in a
manner inconsistent with the guidelines in 5 CFR 1320.6.
A8. CONSULTATION WITH INDIVIDUALS OUTSIDE OF THE AGENCY ON AVAILABILITY
OF DATA, FREQUENCY OF COLLECTION, CLARITY OF INSTRUCTION AND FORMS, AND
DATA ELEMENTS
The United States Mint collaborates with professional marketing firms
and contractors with expertise in marketing research, statistical
analysis, and customer driven marketing. Their assistance is utilized
in development, administration, and analysis research.
A9. EXPLANATION OF DECISION TO PROVIDE PAYMENT OR GIFT TO RESPONDENTS
The United States Mint has compensated respondents only when it was
necessary as an incentive for their extensive time or expertise.
Specific justification has accompanied such requests. In the future,
the United States Mint will use compensation for respondents only when
it is deemed necessary.
A10. ASSURANCE OF CONFIDENTIALITY OF RESPONSES
Survey respondents contacted by mail, fax, Internet, or some other form
of written communication will be advised on the survey form, cover
letter, or other accompanying document that participation is voluntary
and that the data provided will be secured. As part of the introduction
to a data gathering effort during telephone or personal interviews, the
interviewer will inform the respondents that the survey is voluntary
and that each individual's responses will be secured. Focus group
participants will verbally receive similar assurances during opening
statements of the interview session.
A11. JUSTIFICATION OF SENSITIVE QUESTIONS
Not applicable. Sensitive information is not collected.
A12. ESTIMATED BURDEN OF INFORMATION COLLECTION
The following table is a breakdown of the estimated number of hours for
a three-year generic clearance and estimated number of respondents for
a three-year generic clearance.
However, due to changes in the market and possible new coin
programs legislated by Congress, this figure could increase.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Estimated Estimated
number of number of
Research hours (3 respondents (3
years) years)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Naxion (Formally known as ``Nat'l 5,451 12,000
Analysts Worldwide'') Customer
Acquisition Research...................
Naxion (Formally known as ``Nat'l 3,357 25,200
Analysts Worldwide'') General Analytics
Research...............................
[[Page 51474]]
Naxion (Formally known as ``Nat'l 2,700 10,800
Analysts Worldwide'') Customer
Satisfaction Tracking Research.........
Naxion (Formally known as ``Nat'l 3,840 1,920
Analysts Worldwide'') Focus Group
Research...............................
Web Usability Research.................. 216 216
-------------------------------
Total............................... 15,564 50,136
------------------------------------------------------------------------
A13. ESTIMATED TOTAL ANNUAL COST BURDEN TO RESPONDENTS
Estimates of the cost burden to respondents is unknown at this time.
A14. ESTIMATED ANNUALIZED COST TO THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT
The following table is a breakdown of the estimated cost to the United
States Mint based on previous experience.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total
Research Annual estimated-- 3
estimated cost years
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Naxion (Formally known as ``Nat'l $399,000 $1,197,000
Analysts Worldwide'') Customer
Acquisition Research...................
Naxion (Formally known as ``Nat'l 400,000 1,200,000
Analysts Worldwide'') General Analytics
Research...............................
Naxion (Formally known as ``Nat'l 240,000 720,000
Analysts Worldwide'') Customer
Satisfaction Tracking Research.........
Naxion (Formally known as ``Nat'l 415,000 1,245,000
Analysts Worldwide'') Focus Group
Research...............................
Web Usability Research.................. 100,000 300,000
-------------------------------
Total............................... 1,554,000 4,662,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------
A15. REASON FOR CHANGE IN BURDEN
There is no change.
A16. PLANS FOR TABULATION STATISTICAL ANALYSIS AND PUBLICATION
Information from data collection will not be published for statistical
purposes.
A17. REASONS WHY DISPLAYING THE OMB EXPIRATION DATE IS INAPPROPRIATE
Displaying the expiration date may cause problems with respondents for
data collection programs that overlap the three-year authorization
periods. In addition, respondents might be declined to refuse to
participate if the form carries an authorization date that is expired
or soon to expire.
A18. EXCEPTIONS TO THE CERTIFICATION STATEMENT ON OMB FORM 83-1
Not applicable. There are no exceptions for certification.
SUPPORTING STATEMENT B
UNITED STATES MINT GENERIC CLEARANCE
(December 1, 2017-December 1, 2020) 1525-0012
B. COLLECTION OF INFORMATION EMPLOYING STATISTICAL METHODS
B1. UNIVERSE AND RESPONDENT SELECTION
Surveys covered under this generic clearance will vary with regard to
the universe and respondent selection. The potential universe for some
surveys will include our active and inactive customers, while others
may include far fewer.
However, because the United States Mint is attempting to expand its
numismatic markets and practically all Americans are users of
circulating coinage, the universe for some surveys may include the
entire United States population base, with a statistically valid sample
selected for research.
B2. PROCEDURES FOR COLLECTING INFORMATION
The specific method of data collection for each survey will be provided
to OMB before each survey is conducted.
B3. METHODS TO MAXIMIZE RESPONSE
The United States Mint has found that by sending an advance notice
letter to those customers participating in a telephone survey the rate
of response can be increased and will employ this technically when
possible and cost effective. The United States Mint will employ
procedures to review and test questions by survey experts to ensure
that questions and instructions are clear, relevant, and unambiguous.
Surveys employing non-response follow-up techniques will use multiple
contacts by telephone and/or additional mailing of the questionnaire to
ensure an adequate response.
B4. TESTING OF PROCEDURES
In most cases, a pretest of the data collection instruments will be
conducted prior to its use. Pretests will include review by
knowledgeable United States Mint staff and consultants. In the case of
telephone surveys, the pretest will include monitoring of interviewers
and respondents by United States Mint staff and/or consultants prior to
the actual survey. No pretest will include provisions for contacting
more than nine respondents.
B5. CONTACTS FOR STATISTICAL ASPECTS AND DATA COLLECTION
The contact person for questions regarding any statistical aspects
employed or data collection procedures used will be provided to OMB
before each survey. Administrative questions regarding the Mint use of
this generic clearance should be directed to Manoj Pillai; Numismatic
and Bullion
[[Page 51475]]
Directorate, 5th Floor; United States Mint; 801 9th Street NW.;
Washington, DC 20220.
[FR Doc. 2017-24087 Filed 11-3-17; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4810-37-P
