Building a Data Collection Plan

By Patrick Waddick

Step 4: The Data Collection Process
Once the data collection process has been planned and defined, it is best to follow through with the process from start to finish, ensuring that the plan is being executed consistently and accurately. Assuming the Black Belt or project lead has communicated to all the data collectors and participants what is to be collected and the rationale behind it, he or she might need to do additional preparation by reviewing with the team all the applicable definitions, procedures, and guidelines, etc., and checking for universal agreement. This could be followed up with some form of training or demonstration that will further enhance a common understanding of the data collection process as defined in the plan.

It is a good idea that the Black Belt or project lead be present at the commencement of data collection to provide some oversight. This way the participants will know right away whether or not the plan is being followed properly. Failure to oversee the process at its incipient stages might mean that a later-course correction will need to be made, and much of the data collection and/or measurement efforts will be wasted. Depending on the length of time it takes to collect data - and whether the data collection is ongoing - providing periodic oversight will help to ensure that there are no shortcuts taken and that any new participants are properly oriented with the process to preserve consistency.

Next Page > After The Data Collection Process
Page 1 > Building A Sound Data Collection Plan
Page 2 > Define Goals And Objectives
Page 3 > Operational Definitions and Methodology
Page 4 > Repeatability, Reproducibility, Accuracy and Stability
Page 7 > Sample Populated Data Collection Plan