GUIDE
Data Collection: How to Get Started
Data collection is the process of gathering quantitative and qualitative information on specific variables with the aim of evaluating outcomes or gleaning actionable insights. Effective data collection requires a clear process to ensure the data you collect is clean, consistent, and reliable.
See how organizations like the World Poultry Foundation are using these principles to track millions of households across five African countries.
Download the World Poultry Foundation’s Complete Implementation Guide: 6 Steps to Measuring Success with Data Collection
Included in our Guide to Data Collection
Project Objectives
In order to define your project objectives, you must start by focusing on the right problem.
Data Requirements
A clear understanding of your data requirements will help focus and identify a method that serves your needs.
Method
The type of data you are looking to collect, as well as characteristics of its source and environment, should all inform method selection.
Organizing Your Plan
There are two primary methods of organizing a data collection plan that are typically used.
Go deeper with this recorded webinar to explore what secure data management looks like at every stage of maturity
Mobile Data Collection Implementation Guides
Strategies and best practices for designing and building mobile apps, and ensuring data quality in your frontline programs
How to Choose the Right Data Collection Tool
Choosing a data collection tool starts with understanding the type of work you're doing and what you're going to need. Learn about survey tools and case management platforms, what costs to expect as you scale, and how to select tools that grow with your program vs alternatives that you'll outgrow in six months.
Technical Guide: Designing for Data Quality
Ensure high-quality data from the start with built-in controls and validation. Learn essential strategies for consistent naming conventions, case management, validation conditions, and export planning. Includes downloadable worksheets and best practices for avoiding common pitfalls when updating applications.
How to Build Your Mobile Data Collection App
Building a mobile data collection app that succeeds starts with understanding your program’s workflow and data needs. Learn how to plan, design, and deploy a data collection and service delivery app your teams will actually use, with case management, offline functionality, and built-in data quality features.
Discover how CommCare can work for your programs
Hear from Customers using CommCare to Improve their Frontline Program Performance
Cure Violence Global
“CommCare is a mission-critical, strategic platform for us. We have been able to turn data into a strategic advantage, showcasing our impact and driving funding.”
- Dr. Charles Elliott, Director of Data Management
Catholic Relief Services
“We use CommCare extensively to design data collection tools for both development and humanitarian contexts, appreciating its flexibility for both one-off surveys and case management.”
- Nora Lindström, Senior Director, ICT4D
MHP Salud
“CommCare has allowed us to really streamline the data collection process. CHWs find it easy to capture critical information in the moment with families.”
- Dr Maggie Dante, CEO
Explore
Playbook for M&E Teams
Download the monitoring and evaluation playbook to learn how centralizing your digital tools can reduce costs, improve data quality, and scale impact.
More About CommCare
Learn how to build secure, customizable apps, enabling your frontline teams to collect actionable data and amplify your organization’s impact.
Guides and Toolkits
Find more interactive and informative tools can support you in implementing digital solutions including launching and improving your programs.