PDA Data Collection: A Quick OverviewWhile the concept of using PDA software for surveys and data collection has been around for several years, usage hasn't been very widespread until recently, as prices drop for handhelds and devices. Once limited to large corporations and businesses, pda data collection technology is now affordable for everybody, including students, researchers and small business owners. Below are a few commonly asked questions about this technology. We hope it can give you a better sense of what is out there and what choices you have. When you are ready, please try out Quickformz, PDA survey software for Palm devices. |
What is pda data collection and how does it work?
PDA data collection is simply the process of using a handheld or mobile computer (such as a Palm) to record data. Typically, the process occurs while the user is out "in the field", away from an office or central location, where access to a main system or database is limited.
Instead of using paper-based forms and a pen, the user can enter collected information directly into the device. The information is saved on the device for later use, when it can be transferred to another computer, shared with others or entered into a database.
Examples of mobile data collection use cases include field or marketing surveys and factory or store inspections.
What's so good about collecting data with a Palm or PDA? Any cons?Reduce clutter- Get rid of clipboards, pens and piles of paper that can be hard to carry around, keep together or organize. Have everything you need in a small portable device. Cut time- Enter answers or field data quickly with a few taps or clicks. Cut down on time re-entering handwritten answers to a PC by copying all the results directly to a computer. Save money- Cut down on mistakes and wasted time due to illegible handwriting, extra data entry and lost papers. Collect more data faster so that you can focus on analysis and make quicker decisions. Some of the possible "cons" of using PDAs for data collection (when compared to traditional paper-based methods) include initial costs for devices and potential data loss in malfunctioning devices. Fortunately, prices for PDAs continue declining toward the sub-$100 price point and data security measures such as external memory cards (e.g., SD cards) are becoming more widespread. Other potential stumbling blocks when implementing surveys on a PDA may include the initial learning curve for first-time users. Some inexperienced PDA users may be unfamiliar with the general usage of a handheld device, or uncomfortable with the visibility of the display fonts or form factor of buttons. Successful ways to address these issues beforehand include the careful review of a device before purchase as well as providing adequate training for users. There are numerous case studies that have been done to assess traditional versus paperless/PDA surveys. Here are several interesting ones:
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What do I need to get started?There are many different types of software solutions that can be used for data collection on handhelds. They typically require at least:
Some types of solutions will require additional database or server software. Others may require you to know how to program or learn a scripting language. At Lokilogic, we've created Quickformz, PDA survey software to make data collection easy for everyone. |
What's the difference between a Palm, Treo, PocketPC, Windows Mobile device? What should I use?PDAs traditionally fall into two categories: Palm and Windows Mobile devices. Palm devices are handheld computers that run on the Palm OS platform. These PDAs use a simple icon-based interface and are generally considered easy to learn and use. Several popular Palm handhelds include the Treos (wireless email capability, more expensive), the Tungsten series (targeted for office use) and the Z/Zire series (basic functionality, least expensive). Palms have been around for awhile now and have a greater selection of software available to run. Windows Mobile devices are PDAs that run on a "mini"-Windows OS from Microsoft. These devices maintain a standard Windows "look and feel". Some users prefer these devices because of their comfort level with Windows on their PCs. These devices tend to support more sophisticated functionality, such as streaming multimedia and multitasking. Earlier versions of Windows Mobile were called PocketPC and Windows CE. Traditionally more expensive than their Palm counterparts, Windows Mobile devices have become more affordable in recent years, particularly the Axim series from Dell, though they are still in the $200 range. You may also often hear the term "smartphone" used in conjunction with PDAs. While there is no technical definition differentiating the two, the primary difference is that smartphones are usually mobile phones with organizer or PDA-type abilities (e.g., calendar, Web browser, email), while PDA devices do not usually have mobile phone capabilities. This line is blurring however, as smartphones increasingly become popular (see the Blackberries and Treos). In the end, it is a matter of what features are most important to you. If it is price, the lower-end Palms (Zire-series) tend to be perfectly suitable for most data collection needs. Searching on the web, one can also easily find perfectly usable refurbished or older Palm devices for a good bargain. For advanced functionality, such as multi-tasking and playback of multimedia content, Windows Mobile devices offer more features, albeit at a higher price.
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Have a Palm already? Try QuickFormz for free!  |
Where to buy cheap or budget PDAs |
You don't have to buy the latest and greatest PDA to collect data effectively. There are many stores on the Web that sell older, refurbished or discounted Palms. However, we like the bigger sites. Overstock.com usually has a good selection of "reconditioned" Palms. Amazon.com sells both new and used devices at competitive prices. We recommend the Zire series: |
Note: A potential disadvantage of purchasing a used PDA is the increased chance of a defective or malfunctioning device. Be sure to check what type of warranties your refurbished device may come with. |
Need a ruggedized Palm? |
If you'll be using your PDA outdoors or in extreme situations (e.g., inclement weather, dust or moisture), you have a few choices: You can go with a proven Symbol device (SPT1550, 1700 or 1800). Symbol's ruggedized Palms have been around for awhile and have been the de facto standard of tough PDAs. Even though they were recently discontinued, there is still a large community of users for support. You can check BarCodesInc.com, BarcodePlanet, or Ebay for good discounted prices, ranging from $275 to $800. A recent entrant to this space is Aceeca. They have several sub-$400 Palm devices. If your budget does not permit a ruggedized PDA and you'd still like to protect your device, we recommend getting a Rhinoskin aluminum or leather cover. These can usually be purchased for under $30 and can be a lifesaver when you've dropped your device accidentally. |
Other useful resources |
Good detailed site on different PDA types with a great overview. A thorough collection of resources on survey methods and best practices can be found here on this site. Wikipedia's entry on Palm devices. Cool Palm OS "family" tree.
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