"Because of the problems in reporting results of the presidential race in Florida, CNN has initiated an immediate review of all procedures involved and has already begun consultation with the other news organizations," CNN said in a statement.

VNS is defending its data, though spokespersons have said that they will look into the source of the errors.

"These models, based on sampling precincts, have served us well through many elections. However, we will investigate why they did not work properly in this specific situation," VNS said in a statement.

Nonetheless, the pressure to be the first to project a state's returns appeared to come into conflict with industry standards of accuracy.

"We would rather be last than be wrong....If we say somebody's carried a state, you can pretty much take it to the bank," Dan Rather said before election coverage began on CBS last night.

Frank Newport, the president of Gallup organization, says VNS did the best it could under the circumstances.

"This is an extremely complex process done in 50 states and under intense pressure," Newport said. "It's amazing that they do as well as they do. It's not unusual that something will go wrong."

VNS did not return The Crimson's calls for comment yesterday.