Implementing an Electronic Data Collection System to handle Routine Data

The system was designed to make data available for analysis at regional and central levels. Key arguments for choosing the system included the need to replace paper forms used by Medicine Management Supervisors and the ability to use Adobe Reader to display forms in a format resembling paper forms. A pilot of the system was conducted in 2011, involving the procurement and installation of 9 netbooks with Adobe Reader, as well as a 3-day training course for 9 participants from the central region. The pilot demonstrated the feasibility of using the Adobe system for data collection. The system was subsequently rolled out to all 147 Medicine Management Supervisors, with the procurement of computers and laptop computers for district-level data analysis and presentations. A system, referred to as the DSDS, was also planned to be developed to handle the form, analyze the data, and present it to different users in a customized way. Due to limitations in using Excel as the main analysis and reporting tool, an alternative system was deemed necessary. The implementation of the Electronic Data Collection System aimed to improve data management and analysis, with a focus on making data available for informed decision-making at regional and central levels. The system's development and implementation were guided by the need to address data collection and management challenges, which were identified as critical components of any project. The lessons learned from the implementation process highlighted the importance of careful planning and consideration of data management requirements from the outset.