Data Collection and Observation

<h2>Data Collection and Observation</h2>

<p>Really this is the simplest place to start.</p>

<p>You can just walk out onto site or the factory floor and watch people work.  </p>

<p>The tools listed here provide a structure to approach data collection and observation so it is repeatable and valid (i.e. worth the time collecting). That's important if you are measuring performance, the impact of a pilot or change or want to compare long term performance trends. </p>

<p>If you have a one off problem to fix and you think it is 'obvious' or easy to solve,  this is where to start along with asking the workers what the issues are and why.</p>

<p>Ask the organisation or client for their data and measures about people, places, and performance.</p>

<ul>

<li>People work and behave differently when they are being observed </li>

<li>Data is what it is - often biased or flawed, understandable only in the context of its time and incomplete to answer your questions usually.</li>

<li>At least by asking management for data you may raise a concern about why there isn't any or why it is such poor quality or hard to find in one place.</li>

<li>Privacy and personal information is sensitive and may be covered by legislative obligations.</li>

</ul>

<h3>Relative Investment</h3>

<p>Training - low</p>

<p>Time/effort/impact on business - low - medium</p>