WhatsApp, the popular messaging app, has revolutionised the way we communicate and share information with one another. In recent years, it has also become a valuable tool for organisations seeking to conduct surveys and gather data for monitoring and evaluation (M&E) purposes. WhatsApp surveys offer a quick and convenient way to gather data from a large number of people in a short period of time, making them an ideal tool for M&E in various sectors, including the NGO, mining, and medical sectors. Read more …
Boosting NGO Effectiveness
In the NGO sector, WhatsApp surveys can be an effective way to gather data on the impact of development programs and interventions. Fetola, a national non-profit that supports small businesses with training and resources, uses Mintor’s survey tool to monitor the programme participants’ development and growth on a monthly basis, which enables them to closely monitor the impact of their work, improve their support to the businesses and report to their funders in a timely and efficient manner. This data can be used to assess the effectiveness of the programme and identify any areas for improvement.
Another prime example in the NGO sector is Ranyaka, a large community development non-profit who used Mintor’s survey tool to streamline programme applications, efficiently on-board selected entrepreneurs and significantly improve reporting on the programme impact to their funders and stakeholders. Their “Building a Business” program benefitted of a huge reduction in admin time and cost in administering Monitoring & Evaluation processes.
Mining Sector Survey Challenges Resolved
WhatsApp surveys are also useful in the mining sector. For example, a mining company may use WhatsApp surveys to gather data on the environmental impact of its operations. By sending out surveys to local communities, the company gathers information on community engagement, any changes in air and water quality, as well as any impacts on wildlife or natural habitats. This data can be used to assess the company’s relationship with local communities, and environmental performance and identify any areas for improvement. The challenge of engaging people working and living in remote areas is met head-on with WhatsApp’s use, and WhtsApp platform-based surveys are logistically easier than traditional paper-based survey solutions.
Treating Medical Patients with Continued Care
In the medical sector, WhatsApp surveys can be a valuable tool for gathering data on the effectiveness of healthcare interventions. A hospital could use WhatsApp surveys to gather data on the impact of a new treatment or medication on patients. By sending out surveys to a targeted group of patients, the hospital can gather information on the effectiveness of the treatment, any side effects, and any changes in the patient’s quality of life. This data can be used to assess the effectiveness of the treatment and identify any areas for improvement.
An example is Morton & Partners, a medical organisation which implemented patient after-care follow up with Mintor’s Whatsapp survey and reporting tool. This made the feedback process easy and accessible to all patients. For the first time doctors are alerted to patients’ concerns in real-time with the added advantage of being able to respond in a timely manner.
WhatsApp Survey Benefits
- One of the key benefits of WhatsApp surveys for M&E is the speed and convenience they offer.
Surveys can be sent out to a large number of people in a short period of time, and responses can be received and analysed almost immediately. This allows organisations to gather data quickly and make informed decisions about their programs and interventions. This is a revolutionary solution to paper-based survey pitfalls.
- Another benefit of WhatsApp surveys is their low cost.
Unlike traditional surveys, which often require the use of specialised software or hiring a third party to conduct the survey, WhatsApp surveys can be easily created and administered by the organisation itself. This can help to save time and money, and make M&E more accessible to organisations with limited resources.
- WhatsApp surveys can be a valuable tool for M&E in various sectors, including the NGO, mining, and medical sectors.
By offering a quick, convenient, and low-cost way to gather data, WhatsApp surveys can help organizations to assess the effectiveness and efficiency of their programs, projects, and interventions, and make informed decisions about their future work.
