THE Fiji Bureau of Statistics (FBOS) has begun shifting from traditional paper-based questionnaires to using mobile phones as part of its data collection process.
Chief executive officer Kemueli Naiqama said the move was aimed at improving efficiency and ensuring that statistical information was available in a more timely manner.
“The model used now is the use of mobile phones,” Mr Naiqama said.
“The normal practice for the Bureau of Statistics is to collect data through face-to-face interviews.”
He explained that while the bureau moved from paper questionnaires to tablets in 2017, the introduction of mobile phone-based collection was trialled during the recent multiple indicator cluster survey, supported by UNICEF.
“This one here is so special that we tried out the use of mobile phones.
“It’s just trying to see how best we can capture data as early as possible and do the analytical work after the collection of data.”
Mr Naiqama said traditional paper-based methods often meant waiting up to a year before results were officially published, while the new approach significantly reduced delays.
“Previously, when we were using paper questionnaires, it took time, almost nine months to one whole year to wait for an official final report.
“Now it’s just within six months, some even within four to six months.”
He said the ultimate goal was to make data more readily available while it was still relevant.