Data Collection Methods
A comprehensive overview of the methodologies, technologies, and approaches used by the National Bureau of Statistics to collect, process, and validate statistical data across South Sudan.
About Our Data Collection Methods
The National Bureau of Statistics employs a comprehensive range of data collection methodologies tailored to specific statistical needs, population characteristics, and resource constraints. Our methods adhere to international statistical standards while adapting to the unique context of South Sudan.
We continuously innovate our approaches, incorporating technological advancements and methodological improvements to enhance data quality, efficiency, and coverage across all statistical activities.
Methodological Principles
- Scientific sampling techniques for representativeness
- Rigorous quality assurance protocols
- Ethical standards and respondent protection
- Transparent methodology documentation
- Technological integration for efficiency
Our Approach
Our data collection strategy combines traditional methods with modern technologies, ensuring that we capture accurate and timely information while respecting cultural contexts and operational constraints.
People-Centric
Quality-Focused
Innovative
Standards-Aligned
Primary Data Collection Methods
Sample Surveys
Household Surveys
Systematic data collection from a sample of households to represent the entire population. Used for collecting socio-economic, demographic, health, and living conditions data.
Establishment Surveys
Data collection from businesses, farms, and institutions to understand economic activities, production patterns, and service delivery across different sectors.
Sampling Methods Used
Stratified Sampling
Population divided into homogeneous groups before sampling
Multi-stage Sampling
Selection in multiple stages (clusters, then households)
Systematic Sampling
Selecting every kth unit from a sampling frame
Cluster Sampling
Groups of population units selected as sampling units
Censuses
Population & Housing Census
Complete enumeration of all individuals and housing units in the country. Provides fundamental demographic, social, and economic data for the entire population.
Economic Census
Complete enumeration of all business establishments and economic units in the country. Provides comprehensive data on economic activities, employment, and business characteristics.
Administrative Data
Administrative Records
Utilization of data collected by government agencies and institutions for administrative purposes. Provides cost-effective data for statistical purposes when properly processed and standardized.
Integration & Processing
Administrative data requires significant processing, standardization, and integration to be useful for statistical purposes. This involves data cleaning, harmonization, and record linkage.
Technology-Based Methods
Digital Data Collection
Use of digital tools and platforms for efficient and accurate data collection. Includes mobile applications, online platforms, and specialized software.
Innovative Approaches
Adoption of emerging technologies and innovative methods to enhance data collection efficiency, accuracy, and coverage across diverse populations and regions.
Quality Assurance Framework
Data Quality Dimensions
Accuracy
Ensuring data closely represents the true values through validation and verification processes
Timeliness
Ensuring data is available when needed for decision-making processes
Coherence
Ensuring consistency across different data sources and time periods
Quality Control Procedures
Design Phase
Rigorous questionnaire testing and sampling design validation
Field Preparation
Comprehensive enumerator training and field practice sessions
Data Collection
Continuous field supervision and real-time monitoring
Processing Phase
Systematic data validation, cleaning, and verification
Analysis Phase
Cross-validation and methodological consistency checks
Methodological Innovation
The National Bureau of Statistics is committed to continuous improvement and innovation in data collection methods. We explore new approaches to enhance data quality, efficiency, and coverage while maintaining methodological rigor.
Mobile Technology
Expanding use of mobile data collection platforms and applications
Data Integration
Developing frameworks for combining multiple data sources
Innovative Approaches
Testing new methods for sensitive topics and hard-to-reach populations
Our Commitment
We continuously evaluate and adopt innovative methods to improve the quality and efficiency of statistical data collection in South Sudan.