The Benefits of Partnerships and Better Data Collection for Development: Where to Start?

The program focused on partnerships and better data collection for development. Cesar Zulaica, a full-time MPP student, worked for Next Billion, a Singapore-based social enterprise, to explore innovative solutions for data collection. Thousands of organizations working in development gather and analyze their own data, but few take a closer look at the process of gathering data. Many organizations continue to use traditional methods, such as pen and paper, which are time-consuming, labor-intensive, and costly. In contrast, partnering with an organization that can provide data collection tools can improve the process and reduce costs. Next Billion, a company that seeks to engage emerging market consumers through innovative media platforms and technology, provides a data collection application that allows organizations to collect information in various formats, including text, multiple choice, GPS location, images, and audio. The application does not require an internet connection and can be used in local languages. Five pilot tests of the mobile-based data collection tool showed promising outcomes in various projects, including education, water and sanitation, inclusive business opportunities, community health development, and economic opportunities. In Indonesia, Cesar Zulaica led a data pilot to test the mobile application's ability to improve monitoring and following-up with households from a village under a Water and Sanitation program. In Vietnam, a pilot was carried out to test the application's ability to broaden knowledge on behavioral components related to community development, poverty reduction, and health status. In rural Bangladesh, a pilot test was carried out to gather insights on behavioral components of nutrition and hygiene and the impacts of a local business model. Nehama Rogozen, a Master of Development Practice student and Global Development Fellow, worked at the University of the Philippines, Los Baños (UPLB), as part of a research team exploring the aftermath of Typhoon Haiyan. The project's scope evolved due to changes in the university's academic calendar and the completion of initial research. The team focused on exploring migration patterns after the typhoon, coordination of INGOs, and victim framing/identity. The research team conducted a case study in Tacloban City, which spawned three different topics for papers. The team worked on the papers with Professor Larissa Gata, Research Assistant Sam Piamonte, and Student Assistant Ja Fernandez. The project was both eye-opening and emotionally challenging for Nehama Rogozen, who had previously served as a Peace Corps Volunteer in the Philippines.