DTM is not giving me what I need. How can we jointly revise DTM?

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Jan 03 2020 Print

Revising existing DTM data collection tools is sometimes needed, as information availability and needs of data users change over time.

  • DTM MLSA is implemented in rounds. Changes between rounds may be possible, however changing questions impacts the ability to make comparison over time.
  • Partners will find data and reports on DTM websites and will consider using existing data for their information needs before approaching DTM with new requests. DTM data and reports are shared through DTM website. If needed, contact DTMSupport@iom.int
  • If Partners need a different type of information, they can use Decision making tree for Clusters WG and Partners on using DTM to understand if DTM MSLA is the right tool to provide the information.

If they deem the methodology as appropriate, Partners can approach DTM Team, provide their feedback and discuss the specific additional information need that they have.

When revising, though, partners will be able to identify:

  1. information they were not able to use, even as DTM collected them,
  2. information they used and will likely continue to need from DTM and
  3. new information gaps that have emerged.

Verifying the practical use made by partners in the previous period of each dataset will ensure that the revised data collection tools, (questionnaire and analysis plan) excludes questions that do not provide necessary and usable information and keeps those that do.

During revision, feedback from partners can help improve collection methodologies, interview modalities and other aspects of the DTM exercise.  Partners can also identify and provide support for emerging enumerators training needs.

Remember:

  • Criticizing results without helping DTM to identify better questions and reply options is not in line with the shared responsibility Partners have in ensuring DTM collects useful and usable data for their response.  It is important that the approach by Partners is constructive, and that the DTM team listens.
  • Partners should also remember and respect the fact that DTM may not be able to make all requested changes, or not immediately.  DTM should explain to partners why changes cannot be made or communicate when they will be made.
  • Keep in mind that changing questions that have been previously used also means losing the opportunity to analyse data over time: historical data cannot be compared to the new data.
  • Remember the data users who originally asked for each dataset, and ensure questions are only changed if also their information needs are met.
  • In case of datasets used by many partners (e.g., Sex and Age Disaggregated Data), ensure any change will meet the needs of most partners (e.g., if asked to change the age brackets by one cluster, ensure other clusters can also use the newly proposed brackets).
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