The Use of Mobile Devices for Real-Time Data Collection

Abstract

This study examines the use of mobile devices for data collection in Nigeria, identifying challenges, opportunities, and ways to optimize real-time data gathering. A cross-sectional survey was conducted using Survey Monkey, with 100 analyzed responses out of 1,000 approached participants (10.2% response rate). Findings show that 99% had experience in data collection, with 53% using both smartphones and paper forms, 33% using only smartphones, and 14% relying solely on paper forms. While 24% of smartphone users faced issues, 34% of paper form users encountered difficulties. Notably, 93% preferred smartphone-based data collection over paper-based methods. Despite increasing smartphone adoption, poor internet connectivity in rural areas remains a challenge. The study recommends wider adoption of real-time mobile data collection due to its efficiency and minimal challenges.