Leveraging Spatial and Mobile Technology to Learn and Adapt

The geography of “where” is relevant today in answering the critical learning questions, like the days of Dr. John Snow (1854), while studying the distribution of cholera deaths relative to the location of water pumps. During one of the USAID/Lishe Endelevu reflection sessions, the team shared data analytics with stakeholder’s that included implementing partners, and government representatives to demonstrate project achievements and reach. 

This presentation sparked a series of questions that included, coverage, specific location of our interventions and who is being reached. As much as we could present aggregated data per administrative location, we noted that non-spatial data alone could not answer the “where” question. We adopted our data collection approach to include collection of spatial data. This was achieved through strategic collaboration with ESRI who provided ArcGIS license for non-profit at $120 per annum and embracing KoboCollect mobile data collection and the use of Power Bi for data visualization. 

In the subsequent pause and reflection meetings, we gained confidence in addressing stakeholder’s questions. Based on this technical evidence, the management team adapted implementation process to ensure equitable coverage and allocation resources (human and material). To be able to adapt our MEL processes, leadership was critical in availing resources and cultivating a culture of openness and continuous learning through quarterly pause and reflection meetings, data use and sharing. With a robust MEL system, our learning sessions and business processes became more targeted and effective in bringing about desired outcomes.