DATA CAPTURE - Zimbabwe

1. DATA CAPTURE - Zimbabwe Experience: 62 data capture operators were recruited instead of the approved 90 due to shortage of computers. Shifts were introduction of 24 hour data entry programme and sometimes working during weekends. CSPro software was used for 2002 census.

2. Good Practice • As part of their training in coding and manual editing, data capture operators were also involved in coding and editing before being trained in data entry. • The operator statistics were used as an incentive to improve speed and quality of work; it was a scientific approach of appraising performance.

3. Problems Encountered • About fifty (50) percent of computers were aged and were frequently breaking down • We didn’t have LA Network, so cumbersome use of diskettes and CDs to transfer data from source computer to another for backup. • Some operators used the mouse to skip fields thereby creating errors.

4. Failures • No 100% verification was not done due to large volumes of data • Minimum data editing

5. Success • Data Capture was completed well ahead of schedule. Three shifts were introduced and this speeded up work greatly. However, additional costs were incurred in the form of night shift allowances.