Measuring the Impact of Targeted GIS Training on NGO Field Operations

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@article{1711145,
      author = {Kayode A. Adeparusi},
      title = {Measuring the Impact of Targeted GIS Training on NGO Field Operations},
      journal = {Iconic Research And Engineering Journals},
      year = {2024},
      volume = {7},
      number = {10},
      pages = {596-607},
      issn = {2456-8880},
      url = {https://www.irejournals.com/formatedpaper/1711145.pdf},
      abstract = {Geographic Information Systems (GIS) have become indispensable tools for public health and humanitarian organizations, enabling effective planning, monitoring, and evaluation of field interventions. Despite the growing reliance on spatial data, many non-governmental organizations (NGOs) continue to struggle with data quality, operational efficiency, and integration of geospatial insights into decision-making. This study examines the impact of a structured GIS training program delivered to health field teams within the Hacey Health Initiative. Using a pre- and post-training design, the research measured changes in data accuracy, completeness, and collection efficiency during field operations. The intervention consisted of a targeted training curriculum incorporating ArcGIS Pro and Survey123, applied to routine health data collection processes. Data sources included field observation forms, device-generated logs, and quality control samples reviewed by supervisory staff. Accuracy audits were conducted on randomly selected data points, completeness was scored against standardized forms, and collection time metrics were captured from device logs. Results demonstrated statistically significant improvements across all indicators, with accuracy scores increasing by 21.4%, completeness rising by 18.7%, and average data collection time per case reduced by 27.5% following the training. These findings underscore the value of structured GIS capacity-building for NGOs, particularly in resource-constrained health programs, where data-driven decision-making is critical for optimizing outcomes. The study concludes with recommendations for embedding GIS training into NGO operational frameworks, aligning field practices with emerging standards in digital health and geospatial analytics.},
      keywords = {Geographic Information Systems, NGO Operations, Health Data Quality, Arcgis Pro, Survey123, Field Efficiency, Capacity-Building, Hacey Health Initiative},
      month = {April},
  }