One of the methodological problem is the use of census data. In order to determine factors leading to the redevelopment of the mall, just looking at the census data is not enough. A more detail analysis of all factors relating to the survival of the mall is needed. An analysis of comparison of Champlain Mall and other competing malls can be done, for example. Road network and public transit network can also be included besides the use of census data. However, as for the main purpose of this project is to look directly at the changes in the census data, a more detail analysis of census data can be done as well. If time is available, percentage changes of more than one year should also be looked at. Given the fact that the mall was opened in 1973, census data should be consulted back to the 1970s.
Bias was included during the analysis throughout the project. The factors of changes chosen are mostly my personal selection and a lot of personal observation was included in the analysis, although I am one of the residents living in the area. Also in order to support my observation, a survey of the neighbourhood areas should be conducted.
For operational problem, although it sounds quite reasonable
by looking at the percentage changes of population characteristics, sometimes
it is better to see absolute changes and to see trends from more than two
years. The examined data is only a two-year difference with 5 years
apart. Moreover, the census data used is 1996, although it is the
latest census carried out, the latest information about the area is not
obtained. There may be substantial changed since 1996, but no statistic
is available. Also some aspects of population characteristic are
not readily revealed by census data. As an example, a person's asset
is not revealed by the census but the knowledge of this information may
be useful.