Mobile Data collection has been around for a while now, read on further to take a look at how. Before the advent of softwares, capturing devices and videos, people used to write down each and every detail on paper to make a record. Manual bookkeeping and journaling were integral to all business and personal lives. This is a simple example of data collection.
In today’s world, data collection and entry is made much easier with the tiny mobile devices that we carry every day. Mobile phones are a day-to-day essential. The availability of mobile phones to every person in the world has led technical groups to explore various business opportunities and has led to exciting ventures in various sectors.
Data captured from mobile phones is the way to go because the total number of mobiles in the world almost equals the total world population. Hence mobile phones can be used to collect various data related to a person and can be used for various purposes.
User-friendly smartphone interfaces and simple screen prompts can be used for a survey or response with just a few clicks. The data captured is structured and transmitted wherever required.
What is Mobile Data Collection?
Mobile data collection is a technique where mobile phones are used as the medium to collect data at the source point itself. Mobile data, Wi-Fi and SMS options are available to do this work. This method trumps manual data collection and is time-saving and cost-efficient.
This is highly secure as there are specialized apps to do this functionality. There are a few factors that have to be governed while following mobile data collection. Looking into the data type, getting to know the source of the data, connectivity type and other technologies used to provide solutions before data collection.
Mobile data collection is always accurate and has efficient data validation. Collecting information regarding health, education, travel, planning, telecommunication, Inventory management, hospital management, etc. involves mobile data collection. Life is made easier with no data error or losses.
Sustaining Data Collection
Below are some key points as to how data collection program can be sustained:
- Encourage Users and Usage
The users must be engaged with the tool and the users must be rewarded. If it saves the user time and effort, they are automatically encouraged to use it more. Frequent reminders through SMS or emails can keep the users on track. It is also good to let the users know the impact they create on using mobile data collection by giving feedback and sharing positive tips on how to use them..
- Initiate support systems
A support system can help in the clarification of queries. But the support staff must have good communication skills, look through the back end of admin rights and have good knowledge of applications. Employing a call center or help desk is useful.
- Track down the issues
Whenever an issuer is reported, tracking them to avoid further issues is necessary. Resolving the existing problem and initiating steps to reduce it is very important. A well-supported app with no compromise performance management will be liked by users. Making sure that the problems flagged are rectified is basically a good thing.
- Creating Easy to Infer Manuals
This could be an essential part of Sustainability Management. The user could easily understand it by reading the manual. If they feel they need external help, they could reach out to customer care providers.
