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Decide How to Collect & Store Your Data

Create Your Data Collection Tool

After you’ve chosen the data collection method that best meets the goals of your registry, it’s time to create the fields that will enable you to gather the information you want from each participant.

Keep these things in mind as you develop the form:

  • Include a title.
  • Explain the purpose of the form.
  • Provide an estimate of time needed to complete the form.
  • Provide clear instructions.
  • Ask only for information that’s needed.
  • Select the appropriate question type (e.g., multiple-choice, drop down menu, checkbox).
  • Use clear language. 
  • Consider the order of your questions. More important questions are typically found at the beginning of the form.

You may want to review the RaDaR Tool: Standard Contact & Demographic Questions as well as the sample Google Form  and Survey Monkey  created using this tool.