Welcome to the e-learning lesson on Creating and Implementing a Data Collection Plan. Data collection is a crucial step in the process of measuring program outcomes. By measuring outcomes, an organization can better recognize the effectiveness and value of its programs, and pinpoint where changes or improvements need to be made. Before collecting data, your organization should have a solid understanding of the purpose of the program you wish to evaluate. You should have a working logic model that identifies your desired outcomes, the resources and activities necessary to accomplish these outcomes, and a detailed list of the specific measures you will take to implement them. Once this piece is complete, you can begin gathering relevant data through surveys, interviews, focus groups, or other methods.