Ensuring Data Quality

The resource value checklists available in FREP IMS reflect the data collection and documentation standards outlined in the individual protocols. Those protocols specify rules that assessors must follow to ensure data quality; FREP IMS has been designed to enforce those rules and applies them in three different ways:

• On change: When you enter information into a certain field, the system automatically makes the change(s) on the screen once you move away from that field. For example, in the Stratum screen, when you indicate that you are documenting a clear cut stratum, the Harvest Area with No Retention radio button is automatically selected (among other selections).

• On page save: When you save a screen in FREP IMS the system verifies that the information entered into the screen is valid. For example, in the Riparian Stream/Opening screen, if you enter a channel width that does not make sense given the stream class you've selected, you will see an error message when you try to save the page. You must correct this problem before the page can be successfully saved.

• On submit: Finally, when you try to submit your checklist, the system will cross-reference the data in each of the relevant screens and inform you of inconsistencies; for example, if you document a number of strata sizes whose total is larger than the size of the block, you will be presented with an error message.

For a screen-by-screen summary of the data quality rules that have been built into the system to date, click below:

• Stand Level Biodiversity Data Quality Edit Rules

• Riparian Data Quality Edit Rules

• Water Quality Edit Rules

• Common Screens Data Quality Edit Rules

These checks and validations will help ensure that the reports from your system are as accurate and trustworthy as possible. If you don't understand why a particular error message displays, please check the help file for the field(s) involved; if you need more assistance, contact the Help Desk or the appropriate resource value team lead.