What is Nokia Data Gathering?
Nokia Data Gathering is a software system that enables data collection on mobile devices and the transmission of the results for analysis in near real-time. The system enables the creation and delivery of questionnaires to mobile phones, and the rapid return of information for integration into a pre-existing database using normal mobile networks.
Why has Nokia developed Nokia Data Gathering?
Nokia developed the system in response to requests from non-profit and governmental organizations. In many respects, this solution will improve the delivery of critical public services. Specifically, Nokia Data Gathering can be beneficial in public health, agricultural surveys, disaster relief, and environmental conservation.
How does Nokia Data Gathering work?
Questionnaires are created on a PC using the system’s Survey Creator module. These questionnaires are then distributed to the mobile phones of the field personnel. When the field workers finish their surveys, they send the data back to the server, from which it can be integrated to the organization’s existing systems for immediate analysis. It is very flexible and easy to use. It also provides GPS location information for each record, which would otherwise require dedicated instruments.
Why would an organization need this kind of software?
Many organizations collect information on paper forms. There are significant costs involved in transportation and duplication of work, and accuracy can also suffer from re-entry of hand-written data by another person. In the context of health and agriculture, these delays and errors can have negative consequences. The solution also has advantages over other data collection tools like laptops and PDAs. (perhaps include a link to the web page here)
What could Nokia Data Gathering be used for?
The potential uses of Nokia Data Gathering include health administration, agricultural supply/demand information, responding to emergencies, collecting census data, environmental monitoring or any field data collection benefiting from accuracy, timeliness or GPS data.
How much does it cost?
We intend to license the software without cost to non-profit organizations that would benefit from its use, although we will be finalizing licensing terms in the months ahead. The cost effectiveness depends on the profile of the organization itself and the current data collection needs and processes. Please refer to the Solution Overview page for more information.
Is Nokia Data Gathering secure?
Yes, the system accommodates http and https protocols to facilitate higher levels of data security.
What devices is Nokia Data Gathering compatible with?
Nokia Data Gathering has been optimized for Nokia E61, E61i and E71 because they offer the desirable characteristics of long battery life, QWERTY keypad, and large screen. The E71 also offers in-built GPS. While the software has been optimized for these Nokia devices, the software has been built with open source software and is portable to other devices.
What happens when there is no network coverage?
Data can be gathered on the phone memory or onto a microSD memory card inside the phone and then uploaded once network coverage is available.
What languages will Nokia Data Gathering be available in?
Initially, Nokia Data Gathering will be available in English and Portuguese. The software accommodates questionnaire creation in many other languages through those language interfaces. The development of other language versions is under review pending feedback from our stakeholders in different sectors.
