Data Collection Methods

What's in this article

In Kinaki, there are four core types of data collection methods.

These customized experiences of these different methods for data collection will help you with gain insights from project participants, beneficiaries, and staff.  

This is different from data collection types, which are defined during the MEL Design process

The four methods of data collection in Kinaki are: 

Kinaki Online Form: Online forms allow you to collect data through an online portal. Project admins can design questions and create a survey, which can be sent to respondents via a link (either public, private, or password-protected). 

KoBo/ODK Form: KoBo Toolbox and Open Data Kit (ODK) are open-source data collection services. Both offer online, mobile, and offline data collection methods, and can be integrated with Kinaki from design to data management. 

Data Import: You can import local data files to analyze and include in reports. Spreadsheet files (.xlsx) must be formatted to match correct specifications, which allow Kinaki to understand the data. 

Manual Results Input (MRI): MRI forms allow Project Admins to input the results of a given project. Rather than a traditional survey, answers are given as measurements of a chosen indicator. 

When you create a new data collection tool, you will be prompted to select one of the four methods. You can change this selection by selecting the Change button. Kinaki will save your progress, and you can return to the method later. 

Note: To create a Manual Results Input form, visit the MEL Design page and select that as a “type”. 

How to Decide which Method to Use

Each type of collection method has a unique setup and strategy. Consider the goals of your collection activity and select the best choice. The table below can provide some guidance in this regard:

Based on your selection, Kinaki will only show the relevant functions for that data collection method. 

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