Abstract: Open Data Kit (ODK) is an open-source, modular set of tools for building mobile data collection systems. ODK provides an out-of-the-box solution for organizations to author, deploy, and manage mobile data collection solutions. The goal of ODK is to create an ecosystem of data collection tools through modularized abstractions to enable users to mix-and-match pieces needed to build application-specific mobile information service as well as develop their own components. This presentation will give a brief introduction to ODK 1.x with a discussion of some of the successes and lessons learned from ODK 1.x. The second half of the presentation will give a preview of the new ODK 2.0 tool suite which is a parallel set of tools designed based on feedback from users and developers about limitations experienced with ODK 1.x tools. The ODK 2.0 tool suite aims to increase an organization's data collection and management capabilities by supporting data synchronization, malleable workflows, configurable presentation screens, and new data input methods on mobile devices.

Bio: Waylon Brunette is one of the founders of Open Data Kit and is a current member of the ODK core development team. Waylon is currently a PhD student in the Department of Computer Science and Engineering at the University of Washington. He is advised by Professors Richard Anderson and Magdalena Balazinska (previously by Gaetano Borriello). Waylon’s research interests include mobile systems, sensing, ubiquitous computing, and data management. His work focuses on designing systems that improve the lives of underserved populations in low-income regions by leveraging mobile computing devices and sensors.