1. Data is Tied to a Specific Purpose - Collecting data just "because you can" is not a good reason, and organizations should take a regular inventory of data being collected to determine if it is still required to meet their organizational goals.
2. Data is Easy to Understand - Information is not knowledge, and it is important that people can "see" what the data is saying.  The proper use of charts, graphs and other visual aids can help make the data more intuitive and easy to understand.
3. Data is Presented in a Timely Manner - If data is going to be used to identify and problem-solve issues, then it is very important that it is available as soon as possible.  This is one value of posting data right at a workstation where it can be seen by operators, team leaders and supervisors.
4. Data is Accurate - You have probably heard the statement "garbage in garbage out."  For data to be useful and "trustworthy" it needs to be accurate enough to meet the organization's objectives.
5. The Data Collection/Reporting Process is Efficient - The method for collecting data needs to be streamlined and efficient.  Multiple data hand-offs and manual data entry should be avoided if possible.

FieldPoint Software Application:

The FieldPoint software is part of Epicenter's data collection/analysis process.  FieldPoint is an iDevice (iTouch, iPad, iPhone) system that allows people to easily collect, consolidate and review field data:

• Intuitive - FieldPoint is an intuitive mobile application that can collect a variety of data types (audio, barcode, photos, GPS location, memos, numbers, signatures).
• Wireless - Collected data is wirelessly transferred to a secure web-based portal for remote access and use.
• Flexible - The software is extremely flexible through the use of our unique template-building process and can be used to build a variety of applications (shop-floor data collection, electronic kanbans, studies, vehicle tracking, etc.).
• Cost-Effective - FieldPoint is easy to setup and requires little or no upfront investment.

To learn more about the FieldPoint software tool, you can go to transfertechnologies.net or contact Bill Proctor at 216-702-0952.

Considerations:

• Consider "cleaning house" and eliminating any data collection efforts where the data is not used.  Strictly speaking, data collection is a non-value added activity unless the data is used to add value for your customer. 
• The implemention of sustainable data collection systems requires both a process that is efficient and repeatable AND a culture that supports it (accurate and consistent).  Changing a culture requires sustained effort through the development of new habits.
• Consider where it is most appropriate to post data.  Information that affects the whole facility might be posted by the front door while information that applies to a specific work station might be put on a display board within an area.
• Epicenter encourages its clients and business partners to develop their own standard "toolbox" of tools that they can effectively use to plan, design and improve their operations.
• If you would like more information on data collection tools or would like to give us feedback on this article, please contact us at 216-548-7136 or cscott@epicentergroup.com

Next Steps:

If you are interested in learning more about how Epicenter can help your organization to become more effective, please do not hesitate to e-mail us at cscott@epicentergroup.com or call Cindy Scott at 216.548.7136.

Epicenter is pleased to welcome our four new full-time employees - Tim Stone, Danielle Knight, Beth Pohlabel and Sarah Chadwick.  Our added staff enhances our capabilities in the areas of simulation modeling and industrial engineering design work.

Epicenter is always on the look out for high quality professionals to add to our team.  If you know of someone who might be qualified and interested, please have them send their resume and a cover letter to rmilicia@epicentergroup.com.  Thanks!