Lin S-L. 2021. Review of global practice on data capture tools development, application and limitations. Lower Hutt (NZ): GNS Science. 13 p. (GNS Science report; 2021/19). doi:10.21420/93JM-QV03.
Abstract
Rapid and profound changes in the technology used for data acquisition, computing and information management provides a framework that has the potential to allow communities to consider acquiring, analysing and managing data in new ways. Improving the collection and management of data, immediately in post-disaster response and reconnaissance and in long-term impact assessments, is central to enabling knowledge of such events to be used and applied to improve community resilience to future disasters. This report is focused on the collection of data on the physical damage to assets, such as buildings, infrastructure and agriculture, as well as impacts to people. Several existing tools for field data collection were reviewed and their strength and limitations were discussed. We concluded none of reviewed data capture tools were suitable for direct adoption as the next generation of data capture tool due to limitations inherent with each tool. Learned from the findings of the tools review, we proposed a conceptual design for the next generation of data capture tool along with three key themes, namely efficiency, transparency and standardisation. In summary, the major functions of next generation data collection tool are: Easy to use via smarter interface and latest technology; Peril- and purpose-specific data collection forms, easily expansible for other applications; Visual presentation and statistical analysis to support decision-making; Enough documentation designed for various user groups This report intends to enable improved design of data collection within the context of risk reduction and readiness, as well as facilitating efficient and rapid capture of damage distributi/on across the affected region. This in turn supports better decision making for a quicker disaster response and recovery. (auth)
