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Data collection

Data collection | Online data collection | Further information

As part of their funding obligations, all agencies in Queensland that receive funding under the national CSTDA must provide certain information to Disability Services Queensland (DSQ) on a regular basis.

Data collection

There are four methods that an agency can choose from to collect and lodge their data:

1. Paper forms

   This method is particularly useful for small agencies with small numbers of service users, or for those who do not have computers or are not ready to use them. Paper forms may also be useful for larger agencies that collect data at a service delivery point and then enter details into a computerised system at a later date.

2. Online Data Collection (ODC)

   This is an Internet based application developed by DSQ for the collection and provision of data. Further information about this tool is available below.

3. Commercial software

   Some agencies choose to use commercially purchased systems. These systems generally allow the agency to do more than just collect CSTDA NMDS data. If you are purchasing a commercially available product, you should check that it is CSTDA NMDS compliant by reviewing the CSTDA NMDS Data Transmission and Technical Guide specifications and the CSTDA NMDS Data Guide available from the publications and resources page.

4. In-house systems

   Many agencies have their own systems that have been modified to comply with CSTDA NMDS requirements. If you are looking to develop your in-house system to use for the collection and lodgement of data, refer to the CSTDA NMDS Data Transmission and Technical Guide and the CSTDA NMDS Data Guide available from the publications and resources page.

Online Data Collection (ODC)

Online Data Collection (ODC) is an Internet-based application that DSQ has developed for agencies to collect and lodge their quarterly CSTDA NMDS data.

ODC uses an independent, secure central server to store and transmit CSTDA NMDS service-related data entered by CSTDA funded agencies.

To use ODC an agency needs to register with DSQ as an ODC Agency. To register complete and submit an ODC Registration Form.

The registration form and other ODC-related documentation is available from the data collection section of the publications and resources page.

• Access the Online Data Collection (ODC) application.

Statistical Linkage Key (SLK) calculator

The SLK works out the name components of the SLK based on the name of a CSTDA NMDS service user. The SLK is a combination of letters and numbers that allows the CSTDA NMDS to track individual service users of CSTDA funded services without having to know the name of an individual. The SLK is constructed from select letters of the name of an individual, their sex and birthdate. The SLK calculator is particularly useful to ODC agencies that only want to track in ODC services users using an SLK.

• SLK Calculator (Excel 54 KB)

Further information

• Data collection materials are available from the publications and resources page.
• Contact information for the transmission of data is available from the contacts page.
• Information about reporting requirements including reporting dates for 2005-06 is available from the reporting page.