4. Database structure

The database is the essential tool for feedback.

The first step in creating a database is to clearly define its objectives. A needs analysis is essential, and cannot be carried out without consulting the database's potential users. This analysis enables us to determine the "anomalies" to be tracked, the elementary fields to be collected, and so on. This stage is long and difficult, but essential, because the aim is for the database to be used and to be of service to users. It serves to structure the database, organize it and prepare for data collection on the sites.

The organization of data collection is also important. The quality of the data collected, and therefore the quality of the resulting analyses, depends on this organization.

A user-friendly software tool that avoids redundant data entry and is adapted...