Data collection

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Contents

[edit] Definition

Data collection is a term used to describe a process of preparing and collecting data - for example as part of a process improvement or similar project.

Data collection usually takes place early on in an improvement project, and is often formalised through a data collection Plan [1] which often contains the following activity.

  1. Pre collection activity – Agree goals, target data, definitions, methods
  2. Collection – data collection
  3. Present Findings – usually involves some form of sorting [2]analysis and/or presentation.

A formal data collection process is necessary as it ensures that data gathered is both defined and accurate and that subsequent decisions based on arguments embodied in the findings are valid [3]. The process provides both a baseline from which to measure from and in certain cases a target on what to improve.

[edit] References

  1. ^ Establishing a data collection plan
  2. ^ Sorting Data: collection and analysis By Anthony Peter Macmillan Coxon ISBN 0803972377
  3. ^ Data Collection and Analysis By Dr Roger Sapsford, Victor Jupp ISBN 076195046X

[edit] External links

Caboodle - Data Collection System for the Web

[edit] See also