Introduction

Introduction

Efficient data collection, management, and analysis are critical for research, monitoring, and evaluation in various sectors. The Open Health and Demographic System (OpenHDS) and Open Data Kit (ODK) are powerful open-source tools designed to streamline data management processes. This comprehensive training course on the Installation, Use, and Management of Data Using OpenHDS and ODK equips participants with the skills needed to leverage these tools for effective data collection and management in dynamic field settings.

OpenHDS enables organizations to establish and maintain longitudinal health and demographic surveillance systems, ensuring real-time data tracking and analysis. ODK complements this by providing a robust platform for mobile data collection, even in resource-constrained environments. By integrating these tools, organizations can enhance data accuracy, accessibility, and reliability, ensuring informed decision-making and impactful outcomes.

Programme Curriculum

Training Course on Data Management using Open Hds and Odk

Introduction

Efficient data collection, management, and analysis are critical for research, monitoring, and evaluation in various sectors. Open Health and Demographic System (OpenHDS) and Open Data Kit (ODK) are powerful open-source tools designed to streamline data management processes. Training Course on Data Management using Open Hds and Odk equips participants with the skills needed to leverage these tools for effective data collection and management in dynamic field settings.

This course is tailored for professionals seeking to optimize data collection workflows, from setting up field-based systems to managing large-scale datasets. Participants will learn to install and configure OpenHDS, design and deploy ODK forms, and integrate the two systems for seamless data management. Practical, hands-on sessions ensure that participants gain experience tackling real-world challenges.

Course Duration

5 Days

Course Objectives

Understand the functionalities and benefits of OpenHDS and ODK.
Install and configure OpenHDS and ODK for field-based operations.
Design and customize mobile data collection forms using ODK.
Integrate OpenHDS with ODK for synchronized data workflows.
Manage health and demographic surveillance systems using OpenHDS.
Ensure data accuracy and consistency across large datasets.
Troubleshoot common issues in data collection and management.
Analyze and visualize data collected through OpenHDS and ODK.
Build capacity for monitoring and evaluation in diverse sectors.
Apply real-world case studies to strengthen data-driven decision-making.

Organizational Benefits

Streamlined data collection processes using mobile and field-ready tools.
Enhanced data accuracy and integrity through robust management systems.
Improved monitoring and evaluation of programs and projects.
Real-time tracking of health and demographic indicators.
Reduced costs of data collection with open-source solutions.
Increased efficiency in field data operations and reporting.
Improved capacity for longitudinal data analysis and planning.
Strengthened collaboration across teams with centralized data systems.
Enhanced compliance with global data standards and best practices.
Data-driven insights to inform strategic decision-making and interventions.

Target Participants

Data managers and analysts in health and demographic surveillance projects.
Researchers and monitoring and evaluation professionals.
Field coordinators in NGOs, government agencies, and research institutions.
IT specialists supporting data collection systems.
Program managers involved in project implementation and evaluation.

Course Outline

Module 1: Introduction to OpenHDS and ODK

Overview of OpenHDS and its applications in demographic surveillance.
Introduction to ODK and its mobile data collection capabilities.
Comparing traditional data methods with OpenHDS and ODK.
Key benefits of integrating the two systems.
Case Study: A health project leveraging OpenHDS and ODK integration.

Module 2: Installation and Configuration of OpenHDS

System requirements and installation process for OpenHDS.
Configuring the OpenHDS database and server.
Setting up user roles and permissions.
Managing household and individual records in OpenHDS.
Case Study: Implementing OpenHDS for a rural health program.

Module 3: Designing and Deploying ODK Forms

Creating and customizing data collection forms using ODK.
Advanced form features: skip logic, constraints, and calculations.
Testing and debugging forms before deployment.
Deploying forms on mobile devices for field data collection.
Case Study: Mobile data collection for maternal health monitoring.

Module 4: Integration of OpenHDS and ODK

Setting up integration between OpenHDS and ODK systems.
Synchronizing data collection workflows.
Importing and exporting data between platforms.
Addressing data compatibility and synchronization challenges.
Case Study: Integrated data management for a multi-site health project.

Module 5: Data Management and Analysis

Ensuring data quality and consistency.
Using OpenHDS for longitudinal data analysis.
Visualizing data trends and generating reports.
Exporting data for further analysis in statistical tools.
Case Study: Analyzing health outcomes using OpenHDS data.

Module 6: Troubleshooting and Advanced Applications

Common challenges in using OpenHDS and ODK.
Troubleshooting tips and resources for support.
Scaling up systems for large-scale operations.
Exploring advanced features of OpenHDS and ODK.
Case Study: Lessons from scaling up a national health surveillance system.

Training Methodology

This course employs a participatory and hands-on approach to ensure practical learning, including:

Interactive lectures and presentations.
Group discussions and brainstorming sessions.
Hands-on exercises using real-world datasets.
Role-playing and scenario-based simulations.
Analysis of case studies to bridge theory and practice.
Peer-to-peer learning and networking.
Expert-led Q&A sessions.
Continuous feedback and personalized guidance.

Register as a group from 3 participants for a Discount

Send us an email: info@fineskilltrainingcenter.org or call +254769199797

Certification

Upon successful completion of this training, participants will be issued with a globally- recognized certificate.

Tailor-Made Course

We also offer tailor-made courses based on your needs.

Key Notes

a. The participant must be conversant with English.

b. Upon completion of training the participant will be issued with an Authorized Training Certificate

c. Course duration is flexible and the contents can be modified to fit any number of days.

d. The course fee includes facilitation training materials, 2 coffee breaks, buffet lunch and A Certificate upon successful completion of Training.

e. One-year post-training support Consultation and Coaching provided after the course.

f. Payment should be done at least a week before commence of the training, to Fineskill Training Center account, as indicated in the invoice so as to enable us prepare better for you.

Skills & Software Covered

OpenHDS ODK Mobile Data Collection Data Management Survey Administration

Programme Fee

Duration: 5 Days

Method: Online or Physical

Online Price: $1,000

Physical Price: $1,500

Certification: Accredited Certificate

View Available Dates 📄 Download Course Outline (PDF)

Available Sessions

Location

Month

Year

Oct 26 2026

26 Oct — 30 Oct 2026

💻 Online / Virtual session

Online $1,000