Data Collection Platform

Traditional Paper and Pencil Interviewing (PAPI) data collection methodologies where enumerators fill in a paper form or questionnaire to be captured at a later stage are error-prone and inefficient and must not be used.

In contrast, CAPI-based platforms prompt enumerators to ask the right questions to the right households. The software also allows for better monitoring of enumerator activities and obviates the need for data capture.

There are several CAPI platforms available with slight differences in pricing and functionality. There is some flexibility to choose the platform, as long as the platform supports the following functionalities:

1. Real-time data monitoring and feedback to enumerators and field supervisors so that errors can be picked up and corrected immediately. (e.g. valid GPS coordinates, duration of survey, spelling of names, good quality images)

2. Complex data coding requirements such as:

   • Looping (e.g. questions repeated for each owner)

   • Piping (e.g. respondent who self-classifies as a renter only answers questions relating to tenancy arrangements rather than proof of ownership)

   • Automated validation checks (e.g. valid 13 digit ID number)

3. Capturing of GPS coordinates (e.g. location of property) during the interview process

4. Capturing of images (e.g. ID book, marriage certificate) during the interview process

5. Real-time fieldwork management (e.g. number of surveys submitted per enumerator per day, automatic quota tracking)

6. Both online and offline data collection (e.g. enumerators can conduct interviews when offline with the ability to upload their results when they have a strong / stable internet connection)

7. Data storage and retention

8. API access to underlying data