A Comprehensive Guide to Data

Collection, Types, Storage, and

Management in Data Science
https://www.handsonmentor.com/post/a-comprehensive-guide-to-data-collection-types-storage-and-
management-in-data-science

I. Understanding Data Sources

1. Introduction to Data Collection and Storage

Data collection is the backbone of data-driven decision-making. Imagine a company is like a

ship, and data is the compass guiding its direction. Without accurate data, the ship can go
astray.
Explanations:
• Definition and Importance: Data collection is gathering and measuring
information on targeted variables, allowing one to answer relevant questions and
evaluate outcomes. It fuels analytics, machine learning models, and strategic
decision-making.
• Overview of Process: It's like preparing a delicious meal. You need to find the right
ingredients (data sources), ensure their quality (data validation), and store them
properly (data storage).

Example Analogy: Think of data collection like fishing. Your goal is to catch specific types
of fish (data points), and the sea is filled with various kinds of fish (data sources). You must
choose the right tools and techniques to catch what you need.

2. Different Sources of Data

We're surrounded by data, whether from our phones, shopping behavior, or even our
morning commute. Let's delve into the vast sea of data sources.
Explanations:
• Generation and Collection: Our daily activities generate data. For example, social
media posts, online transactions, and fitness trackers. This data can be categorized
and analyzed for insights.
• Utilization of Data by Companies: Companies can use both internal and external
data. Internal data comes from within the organization, like sales records, while
external data may come from market research or public APIs.
• Internal and Public Sharing: Some companies share data publicly, such as weather
or stock information. Others keep it internal for competitive reasons.
Code Snippets (Python):

Output:
Temperature Humidity Wind Speed
0 20 65 12
1 21 60 14
2 19 68 11
3 22 63 13
4 18 67 10

3. Company Data

Company data is the bread and butter of data-driven businesses. It can range from web
events to financial transactions.

Explanations:
• Common Company Sources: These include web data (user behavior), survey data
(customer feedback), logistics data (shipping details), and more.
• Deep Dive into Web Data: A close examination of web data involves studying
aspects like URLs, timestamps, and user identifiers.
Code Snippets (Python):
# Simulating company web data
web_data = pd.DataFrame({
'URL': ['/home', '/products', '/contact'],
'Timestamp': ['2022-08-21 12:00', '2022-08-21 12:05', '2022-08-21 12:10'],
'User_ID': [123, 124, 125]
})

print(web_data)

Output:
URL Timestamp User_ID
0 /home 2022-08-21 12:00 123
1 /products 2022-08-21 12:05 124
2 /contact 2022-08-21 12:10 125

4. Survey Data and Net Promoter Score (NPS)

Surveys and NPS play vital roles in understanding customer satisfaction and loyalty.
Explanations:
• Survey Methodologies: Surveys are like fishing nets, capturing diverse opinions.
They can be conducted online, via phone, or in person.
• Introduction to NPS: The Net Promoter Score is a measure of customer loyalty. It's
like a thermometer for customer happiness, ranging from detractors to promoters.
Example Analogy: Imagine surveys as bridges connecting a company to its customers. NPS
is a specific lane on that bridge that measures how satisfied the customers are.
Code Snippets (Python):
# Example of calculating NPS from survey data
survey_data = pd.DataFrame({
'Customer_ID': [1, 2, 3, 4, 5],
'NPS_Score': [10, 9, 6, 8, 5]
})

promoters = survey_data[survey_data['NPS_Score'] >= 9].count()['NPS_Score']

detractors = survey_data[survey_data['NPS_Score'] <= 6].count()['NPS_Score']
total_respondents = survey_data.count()['NPS_Score']

nps = (promoters - detractors) / total_respondents * 100

print(f'Net Promoter Score: {nps}%')

Output:
Net Promoter Score: 20.0%

5. Open Data and Public APIs

Open data and public APIs are like community gardens, offering valuable resources to
anyone who wishes to access them.
Explanations:
• Overview of APIs and Public Records: APIs allow the retrieval of data from
various sources like weather, finance, and social media. Public records are datasets
published by government agencies.
• Notable Public APIs and Their Uses: For example, Twitter API for hashtags,
OpenWeatherMap for weather data.
• Example of Tracking Hashtags Through Twitter API: Monitoring Twitter
hashtags can provide insights into public opinion and trends.
Code Snippets (Python):
# Example of fetching data from OpenWeatherMap API
import requests

API_KEY = 'your_api_key'
CITY = 'Istanbul'
URL = f'<http://api.openweathermap.org/data/2.5/weather?q={CITY}&appid={API_KEY}>'

response = requests.get(URL)
weather_data = response.json()
print(weather_data['main']['temp'])

Output:
295.15

6. Public Records
Public records are an invaluable source of data for various sectors like health, education,
and commerce.
Explanations:
• Collection of Data by Organizations: International organizations and government
agencies gather and publish extensive datasets.
• Free Available Sources: Data sets such as World Bank's Global Financial
Development Database, the United Nations' data repository, etc.
Code Snippets (Python):
# Example of loading public health data
health_data_url = '<https://example.com/health-data.csv>'
health_data = pd.read_csv(health_data_url)
print(health_data.head())

Output:
Country Life_Expectancy Health_Expenditure
0 Turkey 75.5 5.2
1 France 82.4 11.5
2 Brazil 75.0 9.2
3 Germany 80.9 11.1
4 Japan 84.2 10.9

We have now explored the breadth of data sources, from company-specific data to public
records. Understanding these data sources empowers us to select the right ingredients for
our data-driven projects, whether we're developing machine learning models or crafting
strategic decisions.

II. Exploring Data Types

1. Understanding Different Data Types

Understanding data types is akin to recognizing different flavors in cooking; each adds a
unique touch to the dish. Here we will introduce various data types and their significance.
Explanations:
• Introduction to Various Data Types: Categorization into quantitative and
qualitative data, similar to how ingredients are grouped into sweet and savory.
• Differentiation between Quantitative and Qualitative Data: Quantitative is
numerical, qualitative is categorical.

2. Quantitative Data

Quantitative data, the numerical information, is the backbone of statistical analysis.

Explanations:
• Definition and Examples: Measurement of height, weight, temperature, etc.
Code Snippets (Python):
import pandas as pd

# Example of quantitative data

quantitative_data = pd.DataFrame({
 'Height': [167, 175, 169, 183],
'Weight': [65, 72, 58, 78],
'Temperature': [36.5, 36.7, 36.4, 36.6]
})
print(quantitative_data)

Output:
Height Weight Temperature
0 167 65 36.5
1 175 72 36.7
2 169 58 36.4
3 183 78 36.6

3. Qualitative Data

Qualitative data provides descriptive insights, like adding colors to a painting.

Explanations:
• Definition and Examples: Categorization of music genres, product types, customer
feedback, etc.
Code Snippets (Python):
# Example of qualitative data
qualitative_data = pd.DataFrame({
'Music_Genre': ['Rock', 'Classical', 'Jazz', 'Pop'],
'Product_Type': ['Electronics', 'Books', 'Clothing', 'Grocery'],
})
print(qualitative_data)

Output:
Music_Genre Product_Type
0 Rock Electronics
1 Classical Books
2 Jazz Clothing
3 Pop Grocery

4. Specialized Data Types

Exploring beyond the standard categories, we find specialized data types that require
unique handling.
Explanations:
• Introduction to Image Data, Text Data, Geospatial Data, Network Data:
Understanding their unique characteristics.
• Interplay with Quantitative and Qualitative Data: How they complement or
enhance standard data types.
Code Snippets (Python):
# Example of image data handling using PIL
from PIL import Image

image_path = 'path/to/your/image.jpg'
image = Image.open(image_path)
image.show()

# Example of text data analysis using NLTK

import nltk
text = "Data science is fascinating."
tokens = nltk.word_tokenize(text)
print(tokens)

Output:
['Data', 'science', 'is', 'fascinating', '.']

Understanding different types of data is analogous to understanding the different building

blocks of a construction project. Each type has a specific role, and when used appropriately,
they create a comprehensive structure for analysis and modeling.

III. Data Storage and Retrieval

1. Overview of Data Storage and Retrieval

Storing and retrieving data is analogous to organizing a library. The books (data) must be
cataloged and stored efficiently so that librarians (data scientists) can quickly locate what
they need.

Explanations:
• Importance of Efficient Storage and Retrieval: Ensures quick and smooth access
to data.
• Considerations When Storing Data: Security, accessibility, cost, scalability, and
compatibility.

2. Location for Data Storage

Where you store your data can impact its accessibility and security, much like choosing the
right shelf for a book.

Explanations:
• Parallel Storage Solutions: Like having multiple copies of a book in various
sections.
• On-Premises Clusters or Servers: Your private bookshelf.
• Cloud Storage Options: A public library system with different branches like
Microsoft Azure, Amazon Web Services, Google Cloud.

3. Types of Data Storage

Different data require different storage techniques, just as different books need specific
shelves or storage conditions.

Explanations:
• Unstructured Data Storage: Storing documents, images, videos - akin to
magazines, art books, etc.
• Structured Data Storage: Database storage for well-organized data, like cataloged
books.
Code Snippets (Python):
# Connecting to a SQL database (structured storage)
import sqlite3

connection = sqlite3.connect('example.db')
cursor = connection.cursor()
cursor.execute("CREATE TABLE users (name TEXT, age INTEGER)")
connection.commit()
connection.close()

4. Data Retrieval and Querying

Finding the right data is like finding a specific book in a library. It's all about knowing what
you want and where to look.

Explanations:
• Introduction to Data Querying: Methods and practices.
• Query Languages for Document Databases (NoSQL) and Relational Databases
(SQL).
Code Snippets (Python):
# Querying data from a SQL database
connection = sqlite3.connect('example.db')
cursor = connection.cursor()
cursor.execute("SELECT name, age FROM users WHERE age > 20")
results = cursor.fetchall()
print(results)
connection.close()

Output:
[('Alice', 30), ('Bob', 25)]

Data storage and retrieval may seem like a simple task, but the underlying complexity and
the variety of options available make it a crucial subject to understand in data science.
This part of our tutorial is designed to make you feel like an architect who designs the
blueprint and ensures that each brick (data) is in its proper place.

IV. Building Data Pipelines

1. Introduction to Data Pipelines

Imagine a data pipeline as a sophisticated conveyor belt system in a factory, responsible for
moving raw materials (raw data) through various stages to produce a finished product
(insights).

Explanations:
• Understanding the Role of Data Engineers: Data engineers design and maintain
the pipeline, ensuring that data flows smoothly and reliably.
• Scaling Considerations: Managing various data sources and types requires proper
planning and execution.
2. Components of a Data Pipeline

A data pipeline consists of several stages, similar to the assembly line in a factory. Each
stage transforms the data, preparing it for the next phase.

Explanations:
• Data Collection: Gathering raw data from different sources.
• Data Processing: Cleaning and transforming the data.
• Data Storage: Storing the processed data.
• Data Analysis: Extracting insights from the data.
• Data Visualization: Presenting data in an understandable format.
Code Snippets (Python):
# Example data pipeline: From collection to visualization

# 1. Data Collection
data = fetch_data_from_source()

# 2. Data Processing
processed_data = clean_and_transform(data)

# 3. Data Storage
store_data(processed_data)

# 4. Data Analysis
insights = analyze_data(processed_data)

# 5. Data Visualization
visualize_data(insights)

3. Challenges with Scaling Data

As the pipeline grows, so do the complexities. Consider a small local factory compared to an
international manufacturing plant.

Explanations:
• Managing Different Data Sources and Types: Adapting the pipeline to handle
various formats and sources.
• Considerations for Real-Time Streaming Data: Handling real-time data requires
specialized tools and strategies.
Code Snippets (Python):
# Using Apache Kafka for real-time data streaming

from kafka import KafkaProducer

producer = KafkaProducer(bootstrap_servers='localhost:9092')
producer.send('test', value='Real-time Data')
producer.flush()

The complexities of building and managing a data pipeline might seem daunting, but with
the right understanding and tools, it's akin to mastering the dynamics of a bustling factory.
Through this tutorial, we've provided you with the conceptual understanding and practical
examples to explore and develop your data pipelines.

V. Conclusion

In this comprehensive tutorial, we've explored the multifaceted aspects of data science. We
embarked on a journey from understanding data sources, exploring data types, diving into
data storage and retrieval, to finally constructing data pipelines. These elements work
together to create a coherent and efficient system that enables data-driven decision-
making.

Just as an architect needs to understand every brick, beam, and bolt, a data scientist must
grasp the various elements of data handling, analysis, and presentation. It's a challenging
but rewarding field, full of opportunities for learning and growth.

The hands-on examples and code snippets provided in this tutorial are designed to guide
you through the practical aspects of data science. Remember, the path to mastery is one of
continuous learning and experimentation. Happy data wrangling!
 What Is Data Collection: Methods, Types, Tools
The process of gathering and analyzing accurate data from various sources to find
answers to research problems, trends and probabilities, etc., to evaluate possible
outcomes is Known as Data Collection. Knowledge is power, information is
knowledge, and data is information in digitized form, at least as defined in IT. Hence,
data is power. But before you can leverage that data into a successful strategy for
your organization or business, you need to gather it. That’s your first step.

So, to help you get the process started, we shine a spotlight on data collection. What
exactly is it? Believe it or not, it’s more than just doing a Google search! Furthermore,
what are the different types of data collection? And what kinds of data collection tools
and data collection techniques exist?

What is Data Collection?

Data collection is the process of collecting and evaluating information or data from
multiple sources to find answers to research problems, answer questions, evaluate
outcomes, and forecast trends and probabilities. It is an essential phase in all types
of research, analysis, and decision-making, including that done in the social sciences,
business, and healthcare.

Accurate data collection is necessary to make informed business decisions, ensure

quality assurance, and keep research integrity.

During data collection, the researchers must identify the data types, the sources of
data, and what methods are being used. We will soon see that there are many
different data collection methods. There is heavy reliance on data collection in
research, commercial, and government fields.

Before an analyst begins collecting data, they must answer three questions first:

• What’s the goal or purpose of this research?

• What kinds of data are they planning on gathering?
• What methods and procedures will be used to collect, store, and process the
information?

Additionally, we can break up data into qualitative and quantitative types. Qualitative
data covers descriptions such as color, size, quality, and appearance. Quantitative
data, unsurprisingly, deals with numbers, such as statistics, poll numbers,
percentages, etc.
Why Do We Need Data Collection?

Before a judge makes a ruling in a court case or a general creates a plan of attack,
they must have as many relevant facts as possible. The best courses of action come
from informed decisions, and information and data are synonymous.

The concept of data collection isn’t a new one, as we’ll see later, but the world has
changed. There is far more data available today, and it exists in forms that were
unheard of a century ago. The data collection process has had to change and grow
with the times, keeping pace with technology.

Whether you’re in the world of academia, trying to conduct research, or part of the
commercial sector, thinking of how to promote a new product, you need data
collection to help you make better choices.

Now that you know what is data collection and why we need it, let's take a look at
the different methods of data collection. While the phrase “data collection” may sound
all high-tech and digital, it doesn’t necessarily entail things like computers, big data,
and the internet. Data collection could mean a telephone survey, a mail-in comment
card, or even some guy with a clipboard asking passersby some questions. But let’s
see if we can sort the different data collection methods into a semblance of organized
categories.

What Are the Different Data Collection Methods?

Primary and secondary methods of data collection are two approaches used to gather
information for research or analysis purposes. Let's explore each data collection
method in detail:

1. Primary Data Collection:

Primary data collection involves the collection of original data directly from the source
or through direct interaction with the respondents. This method allows researchers
to obtain firsthand information specifically tailored to their research objectives. There
are various techniques for primary data collection, including:

a. Surveys and Questionnaires: Researchers design structured questionnaires or

surveys to collect data from individuals or groups. These can be conducted through
face-to-face interviews, telephone calls, mail, or online platforms.

b. Interviews: Interviews involve direct interaction between the researcher and the
respondent. They can be conducted in person, over the phone, or through video
conferencing. Interviews can be structured (with predefined questions), semi-
structured (allowing flexibility), or unstructured (more conversational).
c. Observations: Researchers observe and record behaviors, actions, or events in
their natural setting. This method is useful for gathering data on human behavior,
interactions, or phenomena without direct intervention.

d. Experiments: Experimental studies involve the manipulation of variables to

observe their impact on the outcome. Researchers control the conditions and collect
data to draw conclusions about cause-and-effect relationships.

e. Focus Groups: Focus groups bring together a small group of individuals who discuss
specific topics in a moderated setting. This method helps in understanding opinions,
perceptions, and experiences shared by the participants.

2. Secondary Data Collection:

Secondary data collection involves using existing data collected by someone else for
a purpose different from the original intent. Researchers analyze and interpret this
data to extract relevant information. Secondary data can be obtained from various
sources, including:

a. Published Sources: Researchers refer to books, academic journals, magazines,

newspapers, government reports, and other published materials that contain relevant
data.

b. Online Databases: Numerous online databases provide access to a wide range of

secondary data, such as research articles, statistical information, economic data, and
social surveys.

c. Government and Institutional Records: Government agencies, research

institutions, and organizations often maintain databases or records that can be used
for research purposes.

d. Publicly Available Data: Data shared by individuals, organizations, or communities

on public platforms, websites, or social media can be accessed and utilized for
research.

e. Past Research Studies: Previous research studies and their findings can serve as
valuable secondary data sources. Researchers can review and analyze the data to
gain insights or build upon existing knowledge.

Data Collection Tools

Now that we’ve explained the various techniques, let’s narrow our focus even further
by looking at some specific tools. For example, we mentioned interviews as a
technique, but we can further break that down into different interview types (or
“tools”).
 • Word Association

The researcher gives the respondent a set of words and asks them what comes to
mind when they hear each word.

• Sentence Completion

Researchers use sentence completion to understand what kind of ideas the

respondent has. This tool involves giving an incomplete sentence and seeing how the
interviewee finishes it.

• Role-Playing

Respondents are presented with an imaginary situation and asked how they would
act or react if it was real.

• In-Person Surveys

The researcher asks questions in person.

• Online/Web Surveys

These surveys are easy to accomplish, but some users may be unwilling to answer
truthfully, if at all.

• Mobile Surveys

These surveys take advantage of the increasing proliferation of mobile technology.

Mobile collection surveys rely on mobile devices like tablets or smartphones to
conduct surveys via SMS or mobile apps.

• Phone Surveys

No researcher can call thousands of people at once, so they need a third party to
handle the chore. However, many people have call screening and won’t answer.

• Observation

Sometimes, the simplest method is the best. Researchers who make direct
observations collect data quickly and easily, with little intrusion or third-party bias.
Naturally, it’s only effective in small-scale situations.

The Importance of Ensuring Accurate and Appropriate Data Collection

Accurate data collecting is crucial to preserving the integrity of research, regardless

of the subject of study or preferred method for defining data (quantitative,
qualitative). Errors are less likely to occur when the right data gathering tools are
used (whether they are brand-new ones, updated versions of them, or already
available).
Among the effects of data collection done incorrectly, include the following -

• Erroneous conclusions that squander resources

• Decisions that compromise public policy
• Incapacity to correctly respond to research inquiries
• Bringing harm to participants who are humans or animals
• Deceiving other researchers into pursuing futile research avenues
• The study's inability to be replicated and validated

When these study findings are used to support recommendations for public policy,
there is the potential to result in disproportionate harm, even if the degree of
influence from flawed data collecting may vary by discipline and the type of
investigation.

Let us now look at the various issues that we might face while maintaining the
integrity of data collection.

Issues Related to Maintaining the Integrity of Data Collection

In order to assist the errors detection process in the data gathering process, whether
they were done purposefully (deliberate falsifications) or not, maintaining data
integrity is the main justification (systematic or random errors).

Quality assurance and quality control are two strategies that help protect data
integrity and guarantee the scientific validity of study results.

Each strategy is used at various stages of the research timeline:

• Quality control - tasks that are performed both after and during data collecting
• Quality assurance - events that happen before data gathering starts

Let us explore each of them in more detail now.

Quality Assurance

As data collecting comes before quality assurance, its primary goal is "prevention"
(i.e., forestalling problems with data collection). The best way to protect the accuracy
of data collection is through prevention. The uniformity of protocol created in the
thorough and exhaustive procedures manual for data collecting serves as the best
example of this proactive step.

The likelihood of failing to spot issues and mistakes early in the research attempt
increases when guides are written poorly. There are several ways to show these
shortcomings:
 • Failure to determine the precise subjects and methods for retraining or training
staff employees in data collecting
• List of goods to be collected, in part
• There isn't a system in place to track modifications to processes that may occur
as the investigation continues.
• Instead of detailed, step-by-step instructions on how to deliver tests, there is
a vague description of the data gathering tools that will be employed.
• Uncertainty regarding the date, procedure, and identity of the person or people
in charge of examining the data
• Incomprehensible guidelines for using, adjusting, and calibrating the data
collection equipment.

Now, let us look at how to ensure Quality Control.

Quality Control

Despite the fact that quality control actions (detection/monitoring and intervention)
take place both after and during data collection, the specifics should be meticulously
detailed in the procedure’s manual. Establishing monitoring systems requires a
specific communication structure, which is a prerequisite. Following the discovery of
data collection problems, there should be no ambiguity regarding the information
flow between the primary investigators and staff personnel. A poorly designed
communication system promotes slack oversight and reduces opportunities for error
detection.

Direct staff observation conference calls, during site visits, or frequent or routine
assessments of data reports to spot discrepancies, excessive numbers, or invalid
codes can all be used as forms of detection or monitoring. Site visits might not be
appropriate for all disciplines. Still, without routine auditing of records, whether
qualitative or quantitative, it will be challenging for investigators to confirm that data
gathering is taking place in accordance with the manual's defined methods.
Additionally, quality control determines the appropriate solutions, or "actions," to fix
flawed data gathering procedures and reduce recurrences.

Problems with data collection, for instance, that call for immediate action include:

• Fraud or misbehavior
• Systematic mistakes, procedure violations
• Individual data items with errors
• Issues with certain staff members or a site's performance

Researchers are trained to include one or more secondary measures that can be used
to verify the quality of information being obtained from the human subject in the
social and behavioral sciences where primary data collection entails using human
subjects.
For instance, a researcher conducting a survey would be interested in learning more
about the prevalence of risky behaviors among young adults as well as the social
factors that influence these risky behaviors' propensity for and frequency. Let us now
explore the common challenges with regard to data collection.

What are Common Challenges in Data Collection?

There are some prevalent challenges faced while collecting data, let us explore a few
of them to understand them better and avoid them.

• Data Quality Issues

The main threat to the broad and successful application of machine learning is poor
data quality. Data quality must be your top priority if you want to make technologies
like machine learning work for you. Let's talk about some of the most prevalent data
quality problems in this blog article and how to fix them.

• Inconsistent Data

When working with various data sources, it's conceivable that the same information
will have discrepancies between sources. The differences could be in formats, units,
or occasionally spellings. The introduction of inconsistent data might also occur during
firm mergers or relocations. Inconsistencies in data have a tendency to accumulate
and reduce the value of data if they are not continually resolved. Organizations that
have heavily focused on data consistency do so because they only want reliable data
to support their analytics.

• Data Downtime

Data is the driving force behind the decisions and operations of data-driven
businesses. However, there may be brief periods when their data is unreliable or not
prepared. Customer complaints and subpar analytical outcomes are only two ways
that this data unavailability can have a significant impact on businesses. A data
engineer spends about 80% of their time updating, maintaining, and guaranteeing
the integrity of the data pipeline. In order to ask the next business question, there is
a high marginal cost due to the lengthy operational lead time from data capture to
insight.

Schema modifications and migration problems are just two examples of the causes
of data downtime. Data pipelines can be difficult due to their size and complexity.
Data downtime must be continuously monitored, and it must be reduced through
automation.

• Ambiguous Data

Even with thorough oversight, some errors can still occur in massive databases or
data lakes. For data streaming at a fast speed, the issue becomes more
overwhelming. Spelling mistakes can go unnoticed, formatting difficulties can occur,
and column heads might be deceptive. This unclear data might cause a number of
problems for reporting and analytics.

• Duplicate Data

Streaming data, local databases, and cloud data lakes are just a few of the sources
of data those modern enterprises must contend with. They might also have
application and system silos. These sources are likely to duplicate and overlap each
other quite a bit. For instance, duplicate contact information has a substantial impact
on customer experience. If certain prospects are ignored while others are engaged
repeatedly, marketing campaigns suffer. The likelihood of biased analytical outcomes
increases when duplicate data are present. It can also result in ML models with biased
training data.

• Too Much Data

While we emphasize data-driven analytics and its advantages, a data quality problem
with excessive data exists. There is a risk of getting lost in an abundance of data
when searching for information pertinent to your analytical efforts. Data scientists,
data analysts, and business users devote 80% of their work to finding and organizing
the appropriate data. With an increase in data volume, other problems with data
quality become more serious, particularly when dealing with streaming data and big
files or databases.

• Inaccurate Data

For highly regulated businesses like healthcare, data accuracy is crucial. Given the
current experience, it is more important than ever to increase the data quality for
COVID-19 and later pandemics. Inaccurate information does not provide you with a
true picture of the situation and cannot be used to plan the best course of action.
Personalized customer experiences and marketing strategies underperform if your
customer data is inaccurate.

Data inaccuracies can be attributed to a number of things, including data degradation,

human mistake, and data drift. Worldwide data decay occurs at a rate of about 3%
per month, which is quite concerning. Data integrity can be compromised while being
transferred between different systems, and data quality might deteriorate with time.

• Hidden Data

The majority of businesses only utilize a portion of their data, with the remainder
sometimes being lost in data silos or discarded in data graveyards. For instance, the
customer service team might not receive client data from sales, missing an
opportunity to build more precise and comprehensive customer profiles. Missing out
on possibilities to develop novel products, enhance services, and streamline
procedures is caused by hidden data.
 • Finding Relevant Data

Finding relevant data is not so easy. There are several factors that we need to
consider while trying to find relevant data, which include -

• Relevant Domain
• Relevant demographics
• Relevant Time period and so many more factors that we need to consider while
trying to find relevant data.

Data that is not relevant to our study in any of the factors render it obsolete and we
cannot effectively proceed with its analysis. This could lead to incomplete research
or analysis, re-collecting data again and again, or shutting down the study.

• Deciding the Data to Collect

Determining what data to collect is one of the most important factors while collecting
data and should be one of the first factors while collecting data. We must choose the
subjects the data will cover, the sources we will be used to gather it, and the quantity
of information we will require. Our responses to these queries will depend on our
aims, or what we expect to achieve utilizing your data. As an illustration, we may
choose to gather information on the categories of articles that website visitors
between the ages of 20 and 50 most frequently access. We can also decide to compile
data on the typical age of all the clients who made a purchase from your business
over the previous month.

Not addressing this could lead to double work and collection of irrelevant data or
ruining your study as a whole.

• Dealing With Big Data

Big data refers to exceedingly massive data sets with more intricate and diversified
structures. These traits typically result in increased challenges while storing,
analyzing, and using additional methods of extracting results. Big data refers
especially to data sets that are quite enormous or intricate that conventional data
processing tools are insufficient. The overwhelming amount of data, both
unstructured and structured, that a business faces on a daily basis.

The amount of data produced by healthcare applications, the internet, social

networking sites social, sensor networks, and many other businesses are rapidly
growing as a result of recent technological advancements. Big data refers to the vast
volume of data created from numerous sources in a variety of formats at extremely
fast rates. Dealing with this kind of data is one of the many challenges of Data
Collection and is a crucial step toward collecting effective data.

• Low Response and Other Research Issues

Poor design and low response rates were shown to be two issues with data collecting,
particularly in health surveys that used questionnaires. This might lead to an
insufficient or inadequate supply of data for the study. Creating an incentivized data
collection program might be beneficial in this case to get more responses.

Now, let us look at the key steps in the data collection process.

What are the Key Steps in the Data Collection Process?

In the Data Collection Process, there are 5 key steps. They are explained briefly
below:

1. Decide What Data You Want to Gather

The first thing that we need to do is decide what information we want to gather. We
must choose the subjects the data will cover, the sources we will use to gather it,
and the quantity of information that we would require. For instance, we may choose
to gather information on the categories of products that an average e-commerce
website visitor between the ages of 30 and 45 most frequently searches for.

2. Establish a Deadline for Data Collection

The process of creating a strategy for data collection can now begin. We should set
a deadline for our data collection at the outset of our planning phase. Some forms of
data we might want to continuously collect. We might want to build up a technique
for tracking transactional data and website visitor statistics over the long term, for
instance. However, we will track the data throughout a certain time frame if we are
tracking it for a particular campaign. In these situations, we will have a schedule for
when we will begin and finish gathering data.

3. Select a Data Collection Approach

We will select the data collection technique that will serve as the foundation of our
data gathering plan at this stage. We must take into account the type of information
that we wish to gather, the time period during which we will receive it, and the other
factors we decide on to choose the best gathering strategy.

4. Gather Information

Once our plan is complete, we can put our data collection plan into action and begin
gathering data. In our DMP, we can store and arrange our data. We need to be careful
to follow our plan and keep an eye on how it's doing. Especially if we are collecting
data regularly, setting up a timetable for when we will be checking in on how our
data gathering is going may be helpful. As circumstances alter and we learn new
details, we might need to amend our plan.

5. Examine the Information and Apply Your Findings

It's time to examine our data and arrange our findings after we have gathered all of
our information. The analysis stage is essential because it transforms unprocessed
data into insightful knowledge that can be applied to better our marketing plans,
goods, and business judgments. The analytics tools included in our DMP can be used
to assist with this phase. We can put the discoveries to use to enhance our business
once we have discovered the patterns and insights in our data.

Let us now look at some data collection considerations and best practices that one
might follow.

Data Collection Considerations and Best Practices

We must carefully plan before spending time and money traveling to the field to
gather data. While saving time and resources, effective data collection strategies can
help us collect richer, more accurate, and richer data.

Below, we will be discussing some of the best practices that we can follow for the
best results -

1. Take Into Account the Price of Each Extra Data Point

Once we have decided on the data we want to gather, we need to make sure to take
the expense of doing so into account. Our surveyors and respondents will incur
additional costs for each additional data point or survey question.

2. Plan How to Gather Each Data Piece

There is a dearth of freely accessible data. Sometimes the data is there, but we may
not have access to it. For instance, unless we have a compelling cause, we cannot
openly view another person's medical information. It could be challenging to measure
several types of information.

Consider how time-consuming and difficult it will be to gather each piece of

information while deciding what data to acquire.

3. Think About Your Choices for Data Collecting Using Mobile Devices

Mobile-based data collecting can be divided into three categories -

• IVRS (interactive voice response technology) - Will call the respondents and
ask them questions that have already been recorded.
• SMS data collection - Will send a text message to the respondent, who can
then respond to questions by text on their phone.
• Field surveyors - Can directly enter data into an interactive questionnaire while
speaking to each respondent, thanks to smartphone apps.

We need to make sure to select the appropriate tool for our survey and responders
because each one has its own disadvantages and advantages.

4. Carefully Consider the Data You Need to Gather

It's all too easy to get information about anything and everything, but it's crucial to
only gather the information that we require.
It is helpful to consider these 3 questions:

• What details will be helpful?

• What details are available?
• What specific details do you require?

5. Remember to Consider Identifiers

Identifiers, or details describing the context and source of a survey response, are just
as crucial as the information about the subject or program that we are actually
researching.

In general, adding more identifiers will enable us to pinpoint our program's successes
and failures with greater accuracy, but moderation is the key.

6. Data Collecting Through Mobile Devices is the Way to Go

Although collecting data on paper is still common, modern technology relies heavily
on mobile devices. They enable us to gather many various types of data at relatively
lower prices and are accurate as well as quick. There aren't many reasons not to pick
mobile-based data collecting with the boom of low-cost Android devices that are
available nowadays.

FAQs

1. What is data collection with example?

Data collection is the process of collecting and analyzing information on relevant

variables in a predetermined, methodical way so that one can respond to specific
research questions, test hypotheses, and assess results. Data collection can be either
qualitative or quantitative. Example: A company collects customer feedback through
online surveys and social media monitoring to improve their products and services.

2. What are the primary data collection methods?

As is well known, gathering primary data is costly and time intensive. The main
techniques for gathering data are observation, interviews, questionnaires, schedules,
and surveys.

3. What are data collection tools?

The term "data collecting tools" refers to the tools/devices used to gather data, such
as a paper questionnaire or a system for computer-assisted interviews. Tools used to
gather data include case studies, checklists, interviews, occasionally observation,
surveys, and questionnaires.

4. What’s the difference between quantitative and qualitative methods?

While qualitative research focuses on words and meanings, quantitative research

deals with figures and statistics. You can systematically measure variables and test
hypotheses using quantitative methods. You can delve deeper into ideas and
experiences using qualitative methodologies.

5. What are quantitative data collection methods?

While there are numerous other ways to get quantitative information, the methods
indicated above—probability sampling, interviews, questionnaire observation, and
document review—are the most typical and frequently employed, whether collecting
information offline or online.

6. What is mixed methods research?

User research that includes both qualitative and quantitative techniques is known as
mixed methods research. For deeper user insights, mixed methods research
combines insightful user data with useful statistics.

7. What are the benefits of collecting data?

Collecting data offers several benefits, including:

• Knowledge and Insight

• Evidence-Based Decision Making
• Problem Identification and Solution
• Validation and Evaluation
• Identifying Trends and Predictions
• Support for Research and Development
• Policy Development
• Quality Improvement
• Personalization and Targeting
• Knowledge Sharing and Collaboration

8. What’s the difference between reliability and validity?

Reliability is about consistency and stability, while validity is about accuracy and
appropriateness. Reliability focuses on the consistency of results, while validity
focuses on whether the results are actually measuring what they are intended to
measure. Both reliability and validity are crucial considerations in research to ensure
the trustworthiness and meaningfulness of the collected data and measurements.