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What Data Should My Workflow Capture?

Learn how to decide which questions and data points belong in a workflow so it supports reporting, compliance, and real program decisions.

Lauren Baird avatar
Written by Lauren Baird
Updated this week

Primary Role: Workflow Manager
Learning Focus: Learn → Apply
Where: Workflow Editor & Mobilize AI

Primary Role: Workflow Manager
Learning Focus: Learn → Apply
Where: Workflow Editor & Mobilize AI


🎯 Why This Matters
The data your workflow captures determines what you can report on, learn from, and act on. Too little data limits insight; too much data frustrates users and reduces quality.


📝 How to Think About Workflow Data

When designing a workflow, focus on purpose-driven data, not “just in case” questions.

Ask yourself:

  • What decision will this data support?

  • Who will review or act on this information?

  • Is this required for compliance, follow-up, or trend analysis?

If a question doesn’t support a clear outcome, it likely doesn’t belong.


🛠️ What to Include

Well-designed workflows typically capture data that:

  • Confirms what happened (observation, inspection result, event)

  • Identifies risk, hazards, or gaps

  • Triggers follow-up actions when needed

  • Supports consistent reporting across similar workflows

Favor:

  • Clear, specific questions

  • Consistent wording across workflows

  • Only required detail — not exhaustive detail


⚠️ What to Avoid

Avoid adding questions that:

  • Are “nice to have” but rarely used

  • Duplicate information captured elsewhere

  • Require long text when a simple choice will do

  • Add effort without improving decisions or outcomes

More questions ≠ better data.


What Good Looks Like

A strong workflow:

  • Is easy for users to complete correctly

  • Produces data you actually review

  • Supports reports without manual cleanup

  • Balances insight with usability


👉 Quick Check Before Publishing
If you can’t explain why a question exists or how the data will be used, revisit or remove it.


🔑 Key Takeaways

  • Start with decisions and outcomes, not questions

  • Capture only data that supports action, reporting, or compliance

  • Simple, consistent questions produce better data


Job Role: Workflow Manager | Permission Level: Admin / ANVL Manager + TECH / ANVL Workflows | Special Rights: Workflow Management (Create)

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