- Free Version: Available for teams of up to 10
- Pricing: Premium plan $24/month (with a free 30-day trial period)
- Platforms supported: Available on mobile app (iOS and Android) or a web-based software
Why use SafetyCulture?
SafetyCulture is an all-in-one data collection platform that you can use to gather, organize, and analyze various data sets. On top of that, employees can input data with various media attachments to add context and more information about the data. The platform even integrates with other recording and visualization platforms, making it easier to adopt it and use it in your data collection process.
Features:
- Collect field and operational data on the go using mobile-ready checklists and forms
- Add context to your inputs with time-stamped media attachments such as photos, videos, and more
- Maintain a digital trail of completed surveys and reports for reference by securely storing them in a cloud-based repository
- Make informed decisions based on the data gathered through a robust analytics dashboard
- Seamlessly transfer data from the SafetyCulture platform to your existing tools using plug-and-play integrations
Why use Fulcrum?
Fulcrum is a powerful platform designed to simplify the data collection process, whether you’re out in the field gathering data or in the office analyzing it. With its robust form-building capabilities and offline functionality, this data collection app empowers users to collect data efficiently, especially in remote locations.
Features:
- Custom form creation
- GPS and mapping integration
- Offline data collection
- Free Version: None
- Pricing: Starter Plan costs $15/user/month, billed annually (with a free trial period)
- Platforms supported: Web, iOS, Android
Why use FastField?
FastField is a platform that allows you to create inspection forms to use when gathering data, making it easier to collect consistent and accurate data sets on the field. It’s an excellent choice for businesses requiring intricate forms and efficient data processing. It also offers offline connectivity, which is important when collecting data from the field.
Features:
- Dynamic form creation
- Workflow automation
- Offline data collection
- Free Version: None
- Pricing: Starts at $22.50/user/month, billed annually (with a free trial period)
- Platforms supported: Web, iOS, Android
Why use Jotform?
As the name suggests, Jotform is designed to help managers create forms for employees to use while collecting data. This allows for a uniform data set every time. The platform also comes with various ready-to-use templates, making it even easier to set up forms for data collectors.
Features:
- Extensive template library
- Conditional logic
- Collaboration features
- Free Version: Available
- Pricing: Starts at $34/month, billed annually
- Platforms supported: Web, iOS, Android
Why use KoboToolbox?
KoboToolbox helps workers collect data while facilitating the data-sharing process, allowing you to share data with stakeholders on a secure network. Its focus on flexibility, coupled with support for complex survey designs, makes it a go-to choice for data collection in challenging environments.
Features:
- Form customization with XML
- GPS and mapping features
- Data validation rules
- Free Version: None
- Pricing: Starts at $21/month, billed annually
- Platforms supported: Web, iOS, Android
Why use SurveySparrow?
SurveySparrow is designed to help you create surveys that you can use to collect data on the field or from customers, allowing you to make decisions rooted in concrete data to improve company operations. The platform’s unique conversational surveys enhance respondent participation, making it an excellent choice for obtaining insightful and actionable data.
Features:
- Multi-language surveys
- Executive dashboard and analytics
- Integration with CRM and other tools
- Free Version: Available
- Pricing: Contact vendor for pricing (with a free 14-day trial period)
- Platforms supported: Web, iOS, Android
Why use Wisnio?
Formerly known as TeamScope, Wisnio is designed to help you gather data on your talent and employees, allowing you to build a stronger team. Its emphasis on data quality and compliance makes it a trusted choice in the research community.
Features:
- Compliance with regulatory standards
- Collaboration tools for research teams
- Real-time data visualization
- Free Version: None
- Pricing: Contact vendor for pricing (with a free trial period)
- Platforms supported: Web
Why use SurveyMonkey?
SurveyMonkey is a powerful dedicated surveying app that allows companies to gather robust data sets and analyze them to aid the decision-making process. With a range of question types and collaboration features, it caters to both beginners and advanced users seeking powerful data collection capabilities.
Features:
- Extensive question library
- Collaboration and sharing options
- Advanced survey logic
- Free Version: Available
- Pricing: Standard Monthly Plan starts at $25/user/month
- Platforms supported: Web, iOS, Android
What Is a Data Collection App?
Data collection apps are digital tools that help organizations gather, store, and manage different data types in a streamlined manner, including market research, customer satisfaction rates, field surveys, and more. These apps also allow you to share the data with stakeholders and analyze them, making it easier to find areas of improvement or make impactful changes in your organization.
Importance
Data collection apps offer a wide set of benefits for various industries. These tools are critical in making data-driven decisions and improving operations.
Some of the benefits of using these apps for collecting data include the following:
Accurate Data
Data collection apps streamline the process of collecting information, reducing the likelihood of inaccuracies associated with traditional paper-based methods. This efficiency boost translates to time and cost savings for businesses.
Faster Updates
Good data collection apps allow you to send updates to stakeholders instantly. This feature is particularly advantageous for decision-makers and business analysts who require instant insights to inform critical choices.
On-the-Go Collection
The ability to collect data on-the-go enhances productivity for field workers. Whether in the field or during travel, these apps empower users to capture information swiftly and effortlessly.
Key Features
It’s ideal for companies to choose data collection apps that fit their needs or industry, which is why these apps come with unique feature sets. However, some of the key features you’ll need in a data collection app include:
- Intuitive User Interface
- Sync Across Devices
- Security Measures
- Customization Options
- Integration Capabilities
Choosing the Right Data Collection App
Here’s a breakdown of the best data collection apps above to help you find the best fit for your needs:
| Data Collection App | Free Version | Paid Plan | Mobile App |
| SafetyCulture | Yes | $24/user/month* | Yes |
| Fulcrum | None | $15/user/month* | Yes |
| FastField | None | $22.50/user/month* | Yes |
| Jotform | Yes | $34/month* | Yes |
| KoboToolbox | None | $21/month* | Yes |
| SurveySparrow | Yes | Contact vendor for pricing | Yes |
| Wisnio | None | Contact vendor for pricing | None |
| SurveyMonkey | Yes | $25/month | Yes |
* billed annually
Leon Altomonte