Successful project implementation depends on high-quality collected data. Collecting data is a major challenge in unstable environments.
The use of conventional data collection methods is not possible in this context. Modern technologies offer valuable opportunities for accurate monitoring and evaluation.
Obstacles to Data Collection in Crisis Contexts
During times of political unrest, limited mobility hinders evaluators from conducting field data collection. This restricted access to communities and stakeholders affects the dependability of the data obtained.
This situation is intensified when both individuals and institutions show distrust towards the interviewers. Furthermore, restrictions on information and censorship can hinder objective data gathering, leading to prejudiced evaluation findings.
Security concerns add complexity to the task. Investigators face significant risks in volatile regions. These dangers to their safety limit their capacity to perform field studies and gather data efficiently.
Given these obstacles, strategies that minimize movement are most suitable.
Overcoming Obstacles: Adopting New Technologies
- Remote Technology
With the expansion of telecommunications networks, data can now be collected at a distance. Interviewers can engage in virtual interviews, administer online questionnaires, and participate in videoconferencing discussions, thereby circumventing movement constraints.
- Geolocation data
Advancements in GIS (Geographical Information Systems) technology offer solutions to challenges in data gathering.
Using GIS, evaluators can obtain geographic information even when travel is restricted, regardless of the project field (environment, public health, emergency planning, public health, agriculture, cartography, etc.).
- Reviewing Existing Data
Previously gathered and stored data can offer significant insights for monitoring and evaluation. By delving into these resources, evaluators can discern patterns, effects, and possible shortcomings in project execution.
Political unrest can pose challenges to data collection for project monitoring and evaluation. However, by employing adaptive methodologies and harnessing remote technologies, evaluators can still acquire crucial information amidst challenging circumstances.
The benefits of DELTA Monitoring in this context
DELTA Monitoring a Monitoring and Evaluation software, helps users collect, track, and evaluate data in real time, even in unstable political contexts.
Equipped with a comprehensive suite of online and offline data gathering tools, including geospatial mapping (GIS), DELTA Monitoring enables data collection from remote locations. Built-in security features ensure the safeguarding of confidential data even in potentially challenging settings.
