Data is only as good as the plan behind it. The Data Collection PlanThe blueprint that defines exactly what to measure, how, and by whom, for both your Y and your Critical Xs. Click term for full definition makes sure everyone measures the same thing, in the same way. Watch the short video, then work with the toolkit PDF: it explains the method, shows a worked example and gives you a blank template to fill in.
Tool video
The short tool video will appear here.
Data Collection Plan in short
- Start with your Y. Take the metric from your projectA unique, temporary endeavor with a defined goal that is important, urgent or complex enough to need its own organization outside the normal line organization. Click term for full definition goal.
- Add 3 to 5 critical XsThe small number of inputs that have the biggest impact on your output (Y). Also known as: Vital Few. Click term for full definition. Pick them from your Y=f(X) CascadeA structured brainstorming tool that breaks a high-level Y down into progressively specific, measurable Xs. Click term for full definition.
- Write operational definitions. Define each metric so precisely that two people get the same number.
- Set source, sampleA subset of the population that you actually collect and analyze, ideally representative of the whole. Click term for full definition and owner. Where does the data come from, how much, how often, and who collects it?
- Test it on a few cases. Collect a handful of data points and fix unclear definitions before you start.
Key points
- One row for the Y and each critical X.
- The operational definitionA clear, unambiguous, agreed-upon definition of a metric, precise enough that two different people measuring the same thing get the same number. Click term for full definition is the heart of the plan.
- Fix source, sample and owner up front.
- Collect Xs together with the Y.