Paper-based surveys are becoming rare in Bangladesh development research. Mobile data collection using tablets and smartphones has transformed how we gather field data—improving quality while reducing costs.
Why Digital Data Collection?
The shift from paper to digital brings significant advantages:
- Real-time validation: Catch errors immediately with skip logic and constraints
- GPS verification: Confirm interviews happen in correct locations
- Faster turnaround: Data is available for analysis within hours
- Reduced errors: Eliminate transcription mistakes
- Cost savings: No printing, transport, or data entry expenses
Common Platforms in Bangladesh
ODK Collect / KoBoToolbox: Free, open-source, widely used by NGOs and researchers. Works offline—essential for areas with poor connectivity.
SurveyCTO: Popular among research organizations for its robust features and support. Used extensively by J-PAL and IPA studies.
Survey Solutions: World Bank’s platform, commonly used for national surveys like HIES.
XLSForm Basics
Most platforms use XLSForm—an Excel format for designing surveys. Here’s a simple example:
# survey sheet
type,name,label,required,constraint
begin_group,demographics,Household Information,,
text,respondent_name,Respondent's name,yes,
integer,hh_size,Total household members,yes,. > 0 and . < 20
select_one district,district,District name,yes,
geopoint,gps_location,Record GPS location,yes,
end_group
# choices sheet
list_name,name,label
district,dhaka,Dhaka
district,chittagong,Chittagong
district,khulna,KhulnaPractical Tips
- Test offline thoroughly - Field connectivity is unreliable
- Keep forms simple - Complex logic slows tablets
- Train enumerators on devices - Not just the survey content
- Backup data daily - Upload to servers whenever connectivity allows
- Monitor submissions - Check data quality in real-time
Digital tools make research more efficient, but good survey design and trained field teams remain essential.