Consistent data collection and recording

Advice for using this method

Examples of processes that can be used include:

• Ensuring staff and team members involved in the data collection and recording are centrally and consistently trained in the correct processes
• Having checks in place to ensure all data recording equipment is working and has adequate backup power supplies
• Having checklists for tasks involved in data collection 
• Keeping strong and consistent records about data collection methods which should:
  • Record what people, events and situations were involved
  • Record methods and processes that interviewers followed
  • Record any discrepancies or problems that interviewers encountered, such as missing data or unexpected changes that needed to be made
  • Record any other information
• ​Record keeping can be kept consistent between data collectors and locations by having forms available with specific questions about the data collection to be filled out
• Give data collectors clear, written instructions about data collection protocols. For example,
  • Interviewers conducting structured interviews or questionnaires should:
    • Be given clear, written instructions and question scripts which include things such as:
      • What should and shouldn’t be read out loud 
      • What order to read questions in
      • What words to emphasize
    • Read scripts and questions as written
    • Read every question, even if they feel the participant has already answered the question in a previous answer
  • Interviewers conducting unstructured or semi-structured interviews should:
    • Have a checklist of topics that should be covered
    • Have a list of example questions to address these questions, including likely follow-up questions
    • Be made aware of how much detail is necessary to obtain in these interviews for the purposes of the study