SMART-based patrolling and field data collection is a methodology that utilizes the SMART framework to effectively guide and optimize patrolling activities and field data collection processes. The collection of SMART-data is automated by CyberTracker, an application that captures data and provides visualization capabilities. A patrol-configurable CyberTracker plug-in was implemented within the SMART-database to document illegal activities within national parks. It is specifically tailored for use at Nech Sar National Park, with data collection formats structured around threats, wildlife, and habitats. The data model and collection protocols focus on gathering only the necessary data for effective patrol management and management indicators.
SMART-based patrolling and field data collection has simplified and streamlined workflows and increased data accuracy and consistency. The platform also made it easy for the management to record their daily activities and helped to reduce workload on patrol teams by reducing time spent on filing the data collected by 50%. Detailed and standardised protocols of collection, storage, management, and processing of data on SMART support law enforcement and proper management of the national park and its resources.
All 54 frontline rangers were trained on SMART-based patrolling, data collection protocols and field data collection using the SMART mobile application. Rangers’ SMART data collection protocols and step-by-step procedure pocket booklets (laminated with waterproof materials) were developed and used by the management staff (rangers) during field data collection.
Additionally, to fill gaps on recording field data during patrol mission, continuous orientation was provided to patrol ranger heads, patrol mission deployment heads and selected rangers.
The lesson learned from the implementation of SMART-based patrolling and field data collection is that simplifying the language used in data models of the platform is necessary to enhance accuracy of data collection. Not all rangers are familiar with scientific names and the terminology of ecology. For this reason, the previous SMART data model that had scientific species names made it difficult for rangers to identify them. However, upon simplifying to common names, an improvement in data collection was observed.