1. DATA COLLECTION, MANAGEMENT AND ANALYSIS

2. What kind of data is collected through systematic observation?
Observers deployed across the country report responses to questions on a uniform checklist that assess the quality of the election process observed, and, in some cases, collect vote count results for verification.
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3. Developing a Data Collection Plan
What kind of information needs to be reported on election day?
What is the strongest nationwide mode of communication that could be used on election day?
What challenges could occur on election day to disrupt your data collection strategy?
Will observers be able to realistically understand and use the method of data collection?

4. Strategies for Rapid Reporting
Use short forms with limited questions
Identify the most appropriate method of transmission
Determine a reasonable timeline for data collection
Streamline and simplify bottom-to-top reporting
Transmitting election day checklists vs. critical incidents

5. Methods of Transmission
SMS
Phone call
Mobile, landline, satellite
Smartphone app
Internet
Fax
Paper, hand delivery
Usually back-up plan

6. Planning for 100% Reporting Rates
Back-ups and contingency plans
Build into trainings
Conduct a simulation
Test communication systems for weaknesses before election day
Use observer stipends strategically to encourage response rates
Pay observers after they have completed their reporting duties

7. Reporting timelines
Reporting often happens at the end of certain key election day processes
Observer arrival
Opening
Voting
Closing
Counting

8. Internal Communication Schema
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9. Data Management Developing an observer database
Compiling all information about field supervisors and observers
Creating an election day protocol
Developing a document that outlines what you will do with your data
Entering the data
Entering data from your observation forms into electronic files
Analyzing the data
Inspecting, cleaning, detecting patterns and developing explanations to your data

10. Database for Observer Management
Collect information for centralized observer database starting at recruitment
Assign and track observer deployment

11. Election Day Protocol
The protocol should answer at least the following question:
How is the data flow at the data center? What are the roles of different staff? Who reports to the board? What is the most efficient paper handling process at the data center?
How will staff process incoming observer data on election day?
How will you analyze the data? Which part of the dataset will be examined first? In what order will the data be analyzed?
What is the protocol if findings indicate some problems? What problems seem most likely to occur on Election Day?
Who will have access to your observation findings internally, and when?
What information will be provided to outsiders?
To whom will the data be released?
What is the estimated time for the information to be shared?
How will you share your findings?

12. Data Security
Install basic protections. Your network should be secure from all predictable forms of malicious attacks
Create a network log-in protocol. You need to provide different security levels for each person based on their defined roles, an efficient method of managing users
Establish a storage and back-up protocol. In the event of server/ computer crash, data back-up will allow you to recover your data and continue your election day operation

13. Organizing and Staffing the Data Center
Logistics
Calculations for number of operators needed
Trainings and simulation

14. Simulation

15. Data Analysis Before Election Day On Election Day
Gather contextual information which will help you to interpret your data
Develop a clear election day protocol
Create Software to visualize the findings
On Election Day
Analyzing initial data
Scanning the data
Searching for systematic patterns
Determining the impact of the problems

16. Quality Control Data management – built in verification
Simulation as test of management and communication structure
Training data clerks
Back-up plans and systems