An Observation is a data collection method used to gather detailed information about a process or a situation. It allows the observer to collects data in real time at the location where the data is generated. Observations are commonly used during process improvement and change management initiatives as well as in customer service environments. Read more »
A Mind Map is a tool that is used to visually organize ideas, thoughts and information. It is simply a collection of words and drawings that organizes thoughts and information around a single topic or problem. It is a nonlinear approach that reflects the way human beings think and organize information in their minds. It has many applications in personal, professional and educational situations. Read more »
A Focus Group is a meeting that is conducted to obtain feedback on a particular topic from the point of view of a targeted participants. It is a type of interview that is made to a homogeneous group of people to collect their perception, opinions, feelings, ideas, and attitudes towards something. It provides an opportunity to share ideas and obtain an in-depth qualitative feedback through open questions and group dialogue. Read more »
An interview is a technique used to understand the experiences of others (customers, employees, etc.). It takes the form of a conversation between the interviewer and the interviewee. It is often conducted in an informal and natural way where the respondent can freely express his/her opinion in his/her own words. Although interviews can be used to obtain almost any information, information is still based on personal opinion and not based on facts. Read more »
A survey is a data collection method used to gather information from a selected group of people. It is used to collect written or verbal information in an organized and objective manner. A survey involves all aspects of the research process including: survey design and construction, data collection planning, data collecting, data processing and response analysis. The most common methods used to conduct surveys are questionnaires, interviews, focus groups and observations.
A questionnaire is a tool often used in research and statistical studies to collect and record information about a particular issue of interest. Read more »
Check sheets are manual data collection forms used to collect data in real time at the location where the data is generated. They can be used on a temporary basis (for example during a project) or be established for routine activities. They enable faster capturing and compiling of data, allow the data to be recorded in a consistent manner, and enable capturing essential contextual and descriptive information that otherwise may be overlooked or forgotten. Read more »
There are many methods available to analyze and group the outputs of brainstorming and problem solving meetings in order to collect meaningful information. An affinity diagram (also known as KJ Analysis) helps categorize and organize a large number of fragmented uncertain information into logical cohesive groups. The goal is to create a limited number of groups which results in better idea selection or a problem that is better understood. Read more »