View source for Computer-Assisted Field Entry (CAFE)

<onlyinclude>
Computer-Assisted Field Entry (CAFE) is [[Primary Data Collection|data collection]] method in which [[Enumerator Training|enumerators]] conduct a [[Pen-and-Paper Personal Interviews (PAPI) | pen-and-paper interview]], which is then followed by real-time data entry completed in the field. This page outlines the advantages and disadvantages of CAFE and provides points to consider when deciding whether or not CAFE fits well into your questionnaire [[Questionnaire Programming|programming]] and [[Questionnaire Design | design]] plan. 
</onlyinclude>
== Read First ==
*CAFE combines elements of both [[Pen-and-Paper Personal Interviews (PAPI) | pen and paper interviews]] and [[Computer-Assisted Personal Interviews (CAPI)]].
*Although CAFE [[Survey Pilot|surveys]] may be logistically complex and potentially expensive, when done well, CAFE '''surveys''' yield reliably high-quality data.

== Considerations ==
===Advantages ===
*CAFE [[Survey Pilot|surveys]] can be done in areas where electronic [[Primary Data Collection|data collection]] is not possible (i.e. places where [[Enumerator Training|enumerators]] face security risks from carrying tablets or where electricity is a significant barrier).
*CAFE '''surveys''' leave a paper trail to follow. 
*Double-data entry can prevent transcription errors.
*Relative to [[Pen-and-Paper Personal Interviews (PAPI)|PAPI]] '''surveys''', CAFE '''surveys''' allow data to be entered in close-to-real time and thus facilitate [[High Frequency Checks|high frequency checks]].

===Disadvantages ===
*CAFE [[Survey Pilot|surveys]] require careful planning and logistics to do well. It is essential that data entry is done in real time as close as possible, and that there are clear feedback systems between the data entry team and the field team. 
*Because CAFE requires a mobile data entry team, it is often more expensive than either typical [[Pen-and-Paper Personal Interviews (PAPI)|PAPI]] or [[Computer-Assisted Personal Interviews (CAPI)|CAPI]] set-ups. 
*Relative to '''CAPI surveys''', CAFE '''surveys''' cannot include hard constraints such as restricting the range of values that can be entered for a certain question. Thus, more extensive data quality feedback to [[Enumerator Training|enumerators]] is required.

== Back to Parent ==
This article is part of the topic [[Primary Data Collection]]

== Additional Resources ==


[[Category: Primary Data Collection]]