Transcript Data collection - i-Tree

Tree Inventory PDA
Utilities:
An Introduction
Data Collection
Two options:
Paper forms
Pocket PC
Paper-based Inventory
UFORE, STRATUM, MCTI, SDAP
Final analysis & reporting depends on quality
field data
Manual data entry into i-Tree
Database Format
Paper Advantages
Low up-front cost
No technical training
No batteries
Paper doesn’t break when you drop it
Paper Disadvantages
Error-prone
Decipherment
QA harder
Can be slower in field
Much slower in office
PDA-based Inventory Utilities
Created keeping in mind
users who have little
familiarity with field data
collection
For project managers
who want to minimize
time-consuming data
entry, QA/QC and
database formatting
PDA-based Inventory
Application compatible
 UFORE, STRATUM/MCTI, SDAP
 Push button data transfer
Two Interfaces
 Desktop
 Pocket PC
PDA to Desktop
Data Transfer
UFORE
PDA to Desktop
Data Transfer
STRATUM/MCTI
PDA to Desktop
Data Transfer
SDAP
PDA Advantages
Fast data collection
Low error rate
No data entry required
Data transfer automated
PDA Disadvantages
Up-front equipment expense
Training required
Require maintenance/care
Charging batteries
Units not protected from elements
Water, Dust, etc.
Demonstration:
Desktop Configuration
PDA synchronization
Using the PDA Utility
Choosing a PDA
Compatible only with Pocket PCs
 Alternative OS (Palm, BlackBerry, Psion,
PocketLinux, etc.) are not compatible.
 Windows Mobile 2002 or 2003 operating
systems (OS).
 Mobile 5.0 operating systems
Other considerations
 Weatherized models
 Back-up media slot
 Protective slip covers or carrying cases
 High capacity batteries
 Cost ($200-400 or more)
In-Field QA/QC
Hot Check – one team member or
someone dedicated to QA/QC checks
3% of ongoing data collection
Cold Check – data re-measured by
the QA/QC specialist, who meets with
and compares data with the team
Blind Check – a sample unit is remeasured by another team or QA/QC
specialist. Data is compared, but
without the presence of the initial
team.
DATA TRANSFER QA/QC
Set up a system for nightly
transfer that works for your
volunteers or project
Scan the data for errors
each night
Reset and import from next
PDA