Primary role
Data being the primary output of research, the department ensures that good quality data is processed by following all the steps of data management. Data management activities include database designing and testing, data entry, data cleaning and backup which are done according to established standard operating procedures. The department also provides input in study proposal / protocol development, and data analysis/ interpretation.
Data analsysis
The department performs data analysis using STATA, SPSS, Epi Info, Epidata, Vivo software. The reports produced are used for scientific publications, abstract and manuscript writing. The department keeps upgrading the different software it uses to support the different studies conducted at the Program.
Vast experience with statistics software
The software to be used during Database design is determined by the sponsor of the specific protocol. The department has a wealth of experience in designing databases using the following software; Visual FoxPro, Epi Info, SQL, SPSS, CsPro, Epidata, OpenClinica, Vivo, Open Data Kit (ODK) and MS Access for relational databases among others. The department also uses the web-based platforms for data capture. These include Medidata Rave and Emmes.
Data Security
Data security measures have been put in place to avoid problems that affect the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of data. All computers and databases applications are password protected with restricted access to the data officers. Data backup is done on servers, and External hard drives. External hard drives are stored in fire proof cabinets at the data office while a copy is stored off-site.
