Going Digital – Challenges paperless data collection

Some of the challenges of field work include the ability to record data in an efficient method. In 2017, Action for Cheetahs in Kenya entered the digital world by implementing a phone application specifically designed to... [ view full abstract ]

Some of the challenges of field work include the ability to record data in an efficient method. In 2017, Action for Cheetahs in Kenya entered the digital world by implementing a phone application specifically designed to record data collected by field officers. A masters level student programmed the application using patrol, transect and interview forms regularly used by ACK for cheetah monitoring and national survey methods. The student then tested the useability of the app through pre and post interviews of staff members using the app for the first time. We evaluated the level of knowledge of each user prior to testing the application. A web based citizen science application is also available for users outside of the organization.

This presentation will highlight the successes and challenges of implementing a custom designed application. We will review the levels of training involved and the time implications for both field and management staff. An evaluation of the application was conducted as a master's thesis project testing the staff responce to the program.