Selecting data collection methods and preparing contractor scopes of work

program and project managers to meet their information needs: representative methods, such as censuses and sample surveys; intermediate or quasi-statistical methods; case study methods; and secondary methods, which rely on existing data. These differ in advantages and disadvantages, and the choice of any one or combination will depend on a number of factors, including: (1) the information needed and its intended use, i.e., the need for statistical representativeness, data quality (validity, reliability, or precision), replicability, potential for secondary analysis, and specificity; (2) characteristics of the subject population, such as heterogeneity and geographic dispersion; and (3) practical considerations, such as expediency, host country capabilities and needs, and cost. The method selected should provide the information needed to make policy decisions as cheaply and expeditiously as possible; appropriate applications are distinguished herein according to these criteria. In practice, most data collection activities combine a variety of methods. Typically, A.I.D. has relied on: representative methods (supplemented by intermediate and case study data) for program and policy planning; secondary data for program and policy evaluation; and case study and intermediate data for project-level planning, monitoring, and evaluation. Once the methodology has been defined, a budget for data collection activities must be developed to include: designing the research; selecting samples and sites; developing and testing instruments; training assistants; collecting, processing, and analyzing the data; preparing reports and deliverables; and communicating and coordinating among implementors. The main components of the scope of work for data collection (which will vary somewhat with the method used), are: the study"s background and purpose; questions to be addressed; the study approach; special skills required; time frame; reporting requirements; and deliverables. Provided for each method are model scopes of work and suggested wording to ensure that documented data sets and other deliverables are received under contract.