Information Gathering Toolkit

The Information Gathering Toolkit is a foundational guide developed by Omni to support organizations in collecting meaningful data through ethical, inclusive, and effective methods. It provides practical tools and best practices for engaging communities using three primary approaches: surveys, key informant interviews, and focus groups. The toolkit emphasizes that data collection is not just a technical task but a core component of evaluation and learning that helps organizations understand what’s working, where challenges exist, and how to improve.

At its core, the toolkit foregrounds principles of research ethics: voluntary participation, confidentiality, and respect for individuals' dignity and diversity. It includes comprehensive sections on obtaining informed consent, crafting appropriate questions, and ensuring that data collection efforts are not extractive but mutually respectful and beneficial. Our commitment to equity in practice is integrated throughout the toolkit, including guidance on inclusive language and participant-centered design, ensuring that individuals from diverse backgrounds feel seen and heard.

This resource is ideal for practitioners new to evaluation as well as seasoned professionals looking for a refresher. With clear instructions, examples, and templates, the toolkit demystifies data collection and positions it as a powerful tool for storytelling, decision-making, and community change. Whether you're fulfilling a grant requirement or seeking internal improvement, this toolkit will help you gather data with purpose and integrity.

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