6.4 TOOLS FOR DATA ANALYSIS AND PRESENTATION

OBJECTIVES

  • Participants can identify characteristics of different types of software and how they match M&E needs
  • Participants can identify good practice in using graphs to communicate
  • Participants can describe the uses of and requirements for GIS in M&E
  • Participants can describe how maps can be used in M&E

OUTLINE

Analysis makes uses of many tools, more and more of which are computer-based. Managers need to be familiar with them to be able to ensure that the most appropriate tools are available and being used to their fullest.

SESSIONS

6.4.1 SOFTWARE FOR DATA ANALYSIS

Data input, management, analysis and reporting needs and the computer skills available should determine the choice of the best software to employ. This session compare different types of software and discuss how they can serve different needs.

FN
  • Software for data analysis

    A panel of 'participant experts' presents concrete examples of how they used data analysis software and what factors governed their choice. Plenary discussion is used to further structure the listing of considerations in choosing data analysis software. In an additional optional activity, brief software demonstrations are used to give exposure to a selection of software relevant to the training activity and participants needs.

    • CCS
  • Software for data analysis
    • OH
  • -
    • EX
  • -


    • 6.4.2 GRAPHS

    Graphs are very effective tools to analyse and report data, and M&E managers should therefore encourage their use. The evolution of software packages means that everyone can make graphs, but this can result in graphs of bad quality or misleading data. Care should be taken that graphs are effectively and correctly used and interpreted.

    FN
  • Graphs

    In groups, participants will analyse some examples of graphs, select "good" and "bad" graphs, and building a good practice checklist for using graphs. Group work is presented and discussed and a master list further elaborated. In an additional optional activity, examples of types of graphs are shown in plenary and participants are invited to give examples of the appropriate use of the different types.

    • CCS
  • Organising data in graphs
    • OH
  • Examples of graphs
  • Types of graphs
    • EX
  • Examples of graphs


    • 6.4.3 MAPS AND GIS (Geographic Information Systems)

    Mapping is an essential tool for recording information for programme planning and operational management and logistics. It is also useful for preparing monitoring activities, particularly sample surveys, and for presenting and disseminating information. This section discusses how to get, create and update a map, as well as different ways to link data to it. The modalities range from sketch, ad hoc, and maps to sophisticated GIS software.

    This session starts by presenting the usefulness of maps and the wealth of information they can display.
    It then proceeds to illustrate GIS systems, integrating maps with databases as they are increasingly used as M&E and information exchange tools.

    FN
  • Using maps

    Participants will brainstorm on what maps can be available and what sources to use to get hold of them. In groups, participants work out what information they would put on a map in different scenarios. In plenary groups present their work and discuss.

    • CCS
  • Getting maps
  • What information do you put on a map?
    • OH
  • -
    • EX
  • -
    • FN
  • GIS - Geographical Information Systems

    One or more external resource persons is invited to give a presentation on a relevant local system using GIS. Presentations are structured to cover basic information. Participant questions and discussion is used to bring out management considerations.

    • CCS
  • GIS - Geographical Information Systems
    • OH
  • -
    • EX
  • -

    • LINKS TO OTHER SESSIONS
    SESSION 7.2.1: INFORMATION SYSTEMS
    GIS systems are used more and more as tools to share information among agencies. It is therefore useful to relate the theory of what a GIS is with how to make information more suitable for GIS application using practical examples.


    REFERENCE MATERIALS

    Geographic Information Support Team - GIST (2000). SHARE: Structured Humanitarian Assistance Reporting. A Summary Description and Requirements for Geo-referenced Data Collection and Mapping to Support Humanitarian Assistance Operations
    A Summary Description and Requirements for Geo-referenced Data Collection and Mapping to Support Humanitarian Assistance Operations

    Miner K (2000). HCIC GIS. Using GIS in Kosovo

    UNICEF (2000). Pilot Application of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for post-emergency information and evaluation activities

    UNICEF/Turkey designed a Geographic Information System (GIS) project to facilitate and enhance data analysis, programming, evaluation and monitoring of the earthquake programme activities.


    LINKS

    ReliefWeb: map Centre
    http://www.reliefweb.int/mapc/index.html
    Reference and thematic maps concerning current and past humanitarian emergencies and natural disasters

    GDIN - Global Disaster Information Network
    http://www.gdin-international.org
    A concept for reducing the impact of natural and technological disasters through better application of information technology to disaster management