For example, regular breaks should be taken, and furniture, computer equipment and posture should conform with sound ergonomic practices. Distractions should be minimised or preferably removed. Staff should not engage in discussion while entering data. Data verification One of the best ways to ensure the accuracy of data is to apply data verification techniques. The results of the two data entries are compared by computer.
Any variation is highlighted, and a supervisor is required to make any appropriate correction.
This technique usually gives very high accuracy rates. Where under-performing operators are identified, this may indicate that more training is needed or that the operator is not suited to that kind of work. Data can also be verified by entering the data once, and requiring another officer, perhaps a supervisor, recheck the data on screen or on print-outs and confirm that it is correct, or make any necessary corrections. Using either of the above techniques, it is desirable that data is entered once by one person and then either re-entered or rechecked by a different person. The person who enters data the first time should not also be the person who checks the accuracy of his or her own data entry.