Advantages and Disadvantages of using KoboToolbox

A female head of the household and her son are being interviewed by Mr. Crispy Salilin, one of the trained enumerators in IDMS, during the field practice in using KoboCollect in a covered court in Brgy. Poblacion, Bislig City.

Advantages and Disadvantages of using KoboToolbox

The central component of this attempt at digital data collection is the availability of android devices. This is arguably more expensive than printed questionnaire, however, android devices owned by enumerators for the project can certainly be used. It also eliminates the need for encoders who will render the data collected from the printed survey forms useful by translating them to digital formats. In addition, the market is replete with affordable yet reliable devices.

Data collection requires only a smart phone to collect data, but it entails arduous preparation. Training and practice for both the use of gadgets and the proper approach in administering the data profiling tool must be carried out. Technical assistance must also be provided to enumerators in downloading the application and obtaining the form to be used. Accurate collection and capturing of data into the application, while maintaining rapport with respondents, must also be practiced thoroughly prior to field activities. When these preparations are satisfied, the actual process of data collection is much less tedious. Note that enumerators could save responses offline, and send validated and completed forms later. This is particularly helpful when covering a remote area where mobile data reception is difficult. They also do not have to carry large baggage of printed questionnaires.