The Ikasavea mobile app is tailored for fisheries surveyors within Pacific Community member countries, offering a streamlined approach to market survey data entry. Developed by the Pacific Community - Coastal Fisheries Programme under the PEUMP project, this application is designed to simplify data collection, ensuring accuracy and efficiency. Exclusively available to authorized users, it works in tandem with the Coastal Fisheries web module, enhancing data management and accessibility. By leveraging this tool, surveyors can contribute more effectively to sustainable fisheries management and marine conservation efforts in the region.

Offline Data Collection

The app allows surveyors to collect data even in areas with limited or no internet connectivity. This feature is crucial for remote locations common in Pacific Community member countries. Surveyors can enter all necessary market data directly on their mobile devices, ensuring no information is lost due to connectivity issues. Once an internet connection is re-established, the data can be easily synchronized with the central database. This offline capability ensures continuous productivity and comprehensive data capture, regardless of location.

User Authentication and Authorization

Access to this app is restricted to authorized users only, ensuring data security and integrity. A robust authentication system verifies the identity of each surveyor, preventing unauthorized access to sensitive market data. This feature ensures that only trained and approved personnel can contribute to the database, maintaining the accuracy and reliability of the information. By limiting access, this also protects against potential misuse or manipulation of the data, safeguarding the integrity of the market surveys.

Data Synchronization with Web Module

The application seamlessly synchronizes with the Coastal Fisheries web module, creating a cohesive data ecosystem. Surveyors can upload collected data directly to the web module, where it becomes immediately available for analysis and reporting. This synchronization ensures that the most current data is always accessible to stakeholders, facilitating timely decision-making and effective resource management. The integration between the mobile app and web module streamlines the entire data workflow, from collection to analysis, improving efficiency and collaboration.

Customizable Survey Forms

This app offers customizable survey forms that can be tailored to specific market survey requirements. This adaptability allows surveyors to collect precise data relevant to the unique characteristics of different fisheries and markets. The ability to customize forms ensures that all necessary information is captured consistently, improving the quality and comparability of the data. Tailored forms also reduce the potential for errors and omissions, leading to more accurate and reliable survey results.

Geographic Data Capture

The application enables the capture of geographic data, allowing surveyors to record the precise location of markets and fishing sites. This feature is essential for mapping market activity and understanding the spatial distribution of fisheries resources. By integrating location data, this provides valuable insights into market dynamics and supports geographically targeted management interventions. The ability to capture geographic data enhances the analytical capabilities of the system and contributes to a more comprehensive understanding of the fisheries sector.

Pros & Cons

• Pros:
• Offline data collection for remote areas
• Secure user authentication
• Seamless data synchronization with web module
• Customizable survey forms for various needs
• Geographic data capture for location-based insights
• Cons:
• Limited to authorized users only
• Requires initial setup and training
• Dependent on the Coastal Fisheries web module

What's New

The latest version of this app includes enhanced data validation features to reduce errors during data entry. Performance improvements have also been implemented to ensure smoother operation on a wider range of mobile devices. Additionally, the user interface has been refined to improve usability and accessibility for surveyors in the field. These updates reflect ongoing efforts to improve the app's functionality and user experience.

Alternative Apps Suggestions

While the Ikasavea app is tailored for fisheries surveys, other data collection apps offer broader functionality. Survey123 for ArcGIS is suitable for creating and deploying various types of surveys. KoBoCollect is another open-source option for data collection in challenging environments. ODK Collect is also a viable alternative for general-purpose data collection.

Strong Call to Action

Fisheries surveyors in SPC member countries are encouraged to leverage this app to improve the efficiency and accuracy of market data collection. Authorized users can download the app from their respective app stores and begin using it immediately. By adopting this tool, surveyors can contribute to more sustainable fisheries management and marine conservation efforts in the region.

Final Conclusion

The Ikasavea app represents a significant advancement in data collection for fisheries surveyors within Pacific Community member countries. By providing offline capabilities, secure authentication, and seamless synchronization with the Coastal Fisheries web module, it addresses key challenges in the field. Its customizable survey forms and geographic data capture further enhance its utility, making it an invaluable tool for sustainable fisheries management and marine conservation efforts under the PEUMP project.