VectorLink Collect, the Supreme Tool for Managing Data

When it comes to data management, VectorLink Collect is next to none. This week’s Fist Bump goes to the VectorLink Cambodia team for facilitating the successful transition to VectorLink Collect for data collection and management of entomological data across all sentinel and foci sites.

Previously, the team used a Microsoft Excel-based data management system to accommodate all entomological data. However, due to limitations in the analytical capabilities of Microsoft Excel and the increased scope of the VectorLink Cambodia project, there was an increased need and opportunity for a more robust and flexible data management system.

Given the significant differences in the primary vector species and collection methodology from other VectorLink countries, shifting the VectorLink Cambodia team to VectorLink Collect required both the creation of a new VectorLink Collect program to specifically accommodate Cambodia’s entomology data, as well as the expanded use of existing VectorLink programs. Leading up to the transition, the VectorLink Cambodia team and Home Office Entomology and M&E backstops worked together to modify data collection tools and create and edit VectorLink Collect programs.  The Home Office Data Science, Surveys, and Enabling Technologies (DSET) team was also essential in ensuring the incorporation of new country metadata without impacting the ongoing data collection and management of our 18 other VectorLink Collect countries for entomology data.

This transition to the VectorLink Collect database, in addition to enhancing the ease of data entry and management, will ensure an increased ability to analyze and visualize near-real time entomological data to drive vector control decision making.

Congratulations to the VectorLink Cambodia team!