Is a collection of data from a variety of sources used to support decision
Data collection is a systematic approach to accurately collect information from various sources to provide insights and answers, such as testing a hypothesis or evaluating an outcome. The main driver of data collection is to gather quality information that can be analyzed and used to support decisions or provide evidence. Show
There are two types of data collected—quantitative data and qualitative data. Quantitative data collection is based on numbers and measurements, such as percentages and statistics. Qualitative data collection covers descriptions, such as descriptions and opinions. Data collection methods are broken into two core categories—primary and secondary. Primary data collection methods gather information directly, so it is source data. Secondary data collection methods pull information from existing repositories. It could be third-party source material or the output of the analysis. Because it is essentially second-hand information, secondary data is less expensive than primary data. Data Collection Methods: Interviews and SurveysFor primary data collection, it is important to start by identifying the types of data that are desired, the sources, and the basic methods, which can include in-person, online, phone, mail, or multi-mode. In-PersonData collection with in-person interviews yields very high-quality data for a few reasons. It allows interviewers to collect in-depth information while also capturing verbal and non-verbal cues, such as body language, tone of voice, and emotions. In-person data collection is well suited for engaging people at a point of service, with neighborhood surveys, and by soliciting opinions. In-person data collection should be recorded to evaluate the integrity of the answers. For instance, interview notes could say that the person had one input, but a review of the recording could reveal subtle details in body language that reveal a different conclusion. OnlineOnline data collection has a number of benefits. It is relatively easy to roll out, and data is already digitized, so it is faster to start analysis and reporting. Online surveys offer respondents the flexibility to answer the questions at their leisure and, depending on how the survey is conducted, provides anonymity which can lead to more honest answers. A few good use cases for online surveys are product or service feedback, quick tests of messages, or creative assessments. Online interviews can also assess the interest levels for a topic and gather data for reports or infographics. Three important tips for online surveys are:
PhonePhone-based data collection is also an excellent source of information. It also provides a way to reach almost any audience. The trick is getting respondents to answer the phone and participate in the survey. When considering phone-based data collection, it is important to be sure that the target market is available by phone during survey times. Customer satisfaction surveys, market research, political polls, and social research are all well suited for phone-based data collection. Questions asked during a phone survey should be closed-ended. Mail-based data collection can be directed at nearly anyone. People are often willing to take time to engage with a paper-based survey as it is a change from the barrage of digital media. Mail-based data collection is a very effective tool for reaching senior audiences who are less comfortable with online tools and sometimes reluctant to talk to strangers. With mail-based data collection, it is important that the envelope is enticing and has a teaser to encourage the recipient to open it. In addition, the survey should be very easy to read, both visually and semantically. Multi-ModeA mixed methodology approach to data collection can increase response rates and generate a broader poll of respondents. Multi-mode data collection is a good option for more extensive surveys that include a wide range of participants. To maximize engagement, provide the survey questions in as many different formats as possible (e.g., mail, online, in-person). Data Collection ExamplesPrimary Data Collection Examples
Secondary Data Collection Examples While secondary data has limitations, a significant advantage is that it is readily available and at scale. Secondary data can be both qualitative and quantitative. Example sources of secondary data are as follows: Quantitative secondary data collection sources
Qualitative secondary data collection sources
Data Collection and Data IntegrityThe main purpose of data collection is to gather information in a measured and systematic manner to ensure accuracy and facilitate data analysis. Since the data collected is meant to provide content for data analysis, the information gathered must be of the highest quality for it to be of value. Regardless of the data collection methods selected, it is essential to maintain the data's neutrality, credibility, quality, and authenticity. The subsequent data analysis will only provide real insights and practical guidance if the data is genuine and free from errors, discrepancies, or loopholes. Without proper processes in place to maintain data integrity during the data collection process, a number of negative outcomes result, including:
Following are measures that can be incorporated into the data collection processes to improve the efficacy and accuracy of the various methods. Maintain Neutrality Monitor Staff Involved in Data Collection
Validate Participants and Their Answers Take Advantage of Automation and Digital Tools Use Reliable Data Resources Data Collection Best PracticesThe following data collection best practices will help drive high-quality information from the process. Be specific about the information that is to be collected. Decide if the data will be qualitative, quantitative, or a blend. Have a clear goal or purpose for the data collection program. Hone the audience for data collection. For example, horizontal audiences could be selected by age and no other filters. Vertical audiences can be selected by refining the group, such as by age, ethnicity, or geography. Secure collected data. Select a data collection method or combination that can be effectively supported. If an aggressive plan is put together that lacks resources, data quality will be lost and undermine the data collection. A balance can be found between available resources and data collection methods used. Set a timeframe for data collection. In addition, the timeframe of data collection can influence the information as external influences will come into play. For instance, surveys taken during the summer could yield different results than those taken over holidays. Spend time on the details. Data Collection: Focus on Objectives and QualityWhile there are a number of technical solutions available to support data collection efforts, attention must be paid to goals. Data collection objectives should direct the selection of methods. In some cases, online surveys are the best approach. In others, old-fashioned, in-person interviews or simple observation are the right methods. After assessing the various methods and options for data collection, care must be taken at every step of the data collection process to ensure the integrity of the information—from how it is collected to how it is stored. Quality dictates the success of any data collection effort. Egnyte has experts ready to answer your questions. For more than a decade, Egnyte has helped more than 16,000 customers with millions of customers worldwide. What is a collection of data from a variety of sources used to support decision making applications and generate business intelligence?A core component of business intelligence, a data warehouse pulls together data from many different sources into a single data repository for sophisticated analytics and decision support.
What is a collection of data that support the decision making process?Broadly speaking, decision support systems help in making more informed decisions. Often used by upper and mid-level management, decision support systems are used to make actionable decisions, or produce multiple possible outcomes based on current and historical company data.
Is a collection of data from a variety of sources?The process of gathering and analyzing accurate data from various sources to find answers to research problems, trends and probabilities, etc., to evaluate possible outcomes is Known as Data Collection.
What is a collection of data called?A collection of related data is called Database. A database is a data structure that stores organized information. Most databases contain multiple tables, which may each include several different fields.
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