How to use Google Docs Collaboration for a better community health survey

Abstract 

Surveys are an indispensable tool for many during their research studies carried out at the Community Medicine Department. Depending on the sample size and the number of team members, the collection of data may be a tedious process. Online collaborative tools like Google Docs can be used to facilitate development of survey instrument, online collection and entry of data, data cleaning and analysis. A recent survey conducted by the Community Medicine Department, Osmania Medical College, Hyderabad, highlights the utility of Google Docs for collaborative research.

Figure 1. Baseline Household survey (Part of the online questionnaire)

Figure 2.  Individual household member details in a Household questionnaire

Figure 3. Geriatric Health Assessment questionnaire

Figure 4. Using a smartphone for Data Entry (on-site or off-the-field)

Figure 5. Using a smartphone for Data Entry - may help to make the survey paper-free altogether.