Using Excel to collect data

Healthwatch need a way to collect, store and analyse their data. This guidance covers low cost solutions using Excel – part of the standard Microsoft Office/365 suite.
Two Healthwatch staff fill in a form.

Collecting, storing and analysing data can be achieved using a CRM/database like Charity Log or Salesforce. Some Healthwatch have fed back that these solutions are not affordable.

This guidance looks at the pros and cons of data capture using a form or survey tool (Smart Survey), data storage using Excel and briefly touches on data analysis using Excel or Microsoft Power Bi – either the free or subscription service.

There is a step by step guide to setting up Microsoft Forms plus links to the templates for both Microsoft Forms and Smart Survey – both of which you can amend to meet the requirements of your Healthwatch. The templates are based on the Healthwatch taxonomy and there is a commentary on how this applies to the questions in the templates.

Guide to Excel template

Download the guidance
Download the template