Most Data Collection Tools for Social Impact Programs and Global Development Work 

When you’re running a health program in a remote village or delivering emergency aid in a disaster zone, bad data isn’t just inconvenient, it’s costly. Delayed decisions, duplicated efforts, and missed funding opportunities often come down to one thing: unreliable or hard-to-access field data.

For NGOs, governments, and social enterprises, the right data collection tool can mean the difference between a program that scales and one that stalls. In this post, we’ll break down what to look for in a tool, and highlight five top options designed for the unique challenges of global development and social impact work.

What to Look for in a Tool

Before choosing a data collection tool, consider these must-have features:

• Offline access – Essential for fieldwork in areas with limited connectivity.
• User-friendly interface – Ideal for teams with varying levels of tech experience.
• Affordability – Free or low-cost options are crucial for nonprofits and small organizations.
• Data security – Protect sensitive information with encrypted, compliant systems.
• Integration support – Tools that sync with dashboards like Excel or Power BI help streamline reporting.

Leading Tools for Field Data Collection

Here are five widely-used tools that support global development teams in collecting better data:

KoboToolbox
Built specifically for humanitarian aid, KoboToolbox is a free, open-source platform used by NGOs around the world. It works offline, offers drag-and-drop form creation, and is easy for field staff to learn and use.

SurveyCTO
SurveyCTO is a secure, professional-grade platform ideal for M&E teams. It offers advanced form logic, encryption, and integration with external dashboards. It’s not free, but it’s built for high-quality, large-scale data collection.

CommCare
CommCare by Dimagi is a mobile-first data collection tool designed for health, social impact, and development programs. It supports case management, offline workflows, and no-code app building, so it’s easy to customize without a technical team. CommCare is available in both free and paid versions, with strong support and a global track record.

ODK (Open Data Kit)
ODK is open-source and highly customizable, perfect for teams with some technical skills. It works offline and supports advanced survey features, multimedia capture, and integrations, but may require more setup time than other tools.

Google Forms
For quick surveys or internal tracking, Google Forms is a simple and free option. While it lacks offline functionality and field-specific features, it’s useful for small projects or basic data needs in connected areas.

How to Choose the Right Tool

To choose the best data collection tool for your program, assess your environment and team needs:

• Will you be working in areas with poor internet?
• Do your team members have experience with digital tools?
• Is the data sensitive and in need of strong protection?
• Do you need dashboard integrations or case tracking?

Start by testing one or two tools – many offer free versions or trial periods. This lets you evaluate the interface, support options, and suitability before scaling up.

Final Thoughts

The right data collection tool can help your organization save time, reduce errors, and scale its impact. Whether you need simple forms or robust field apps, there’s a solution that fits your goals. Try a few options, find what works for your team, and let your data work harder for you!