Interactive data entry and validation tool: A collaboration between librarians and researchers

Abstract

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to share a case study process of collaboration with faculty, highlight some design considerations when creating data entry forms and describe some considerations when planning for data management.

Design/methodology/approach – A case study is presented with goals, events and design considerations.

Findings – Findings show that librarians can be essential members of a faculty research team.

Research limitations/implications – Each partnership is different with different data management needs. Design considerations for a data entry form depend on the specific data being collected.

Practical implications – Principles can be applied to other libraries developing data management collaborations with faculty or for designing of Web/paper data entry forms.

Originality/value – Most forms are not interactive beyond simple presentation of alternate questions. This form of design method builds on user inputs to create dynamic, color-coded and textual guidance. Some of the process of collaborating with faculty partners is shared.