Quick answers about LQAS, sampling, survey rounds, data collection, exports, security, and usage across sectors.
1 Is LQAS scientific?
Yes. LQAS (Lot Quality Assurance Sampling) is a scientifically accepted statistical method originally used in quality control and now widely applied in program monitoring. It uses probability-based decision rules to classify areas as acceptable or needing action.
2 Why is the sample size often 19?
n=19 is a widely used LQAS standard because it balances speed, cost, and decision reliability. It is small enough for rapid field work but strong enough for pass/fail classification using established decision tables.
3 Is 19 fixed, or can it be changed?
19 is not fixed. Sample size can be increased (e.g., 24, 28, 35) when clustering is unavoidable or more certainty is needed. If n changes, the decision rule (d) must also be updated.
4 Can I repeat the same surveys regularly?
Yes. SmartLQA supports repeated survey rounds (monthly/quarterly/baseline-endline) and is designed for continuous monitoring and supportive supervision.
5 Can SmartLQA show trends across rounds?
Yes. Trend dashboards and multi-round comparisons are available in paid versions. Users can compare indicators and PASS/FAIL performance over time.
6 Can SmartLQA be used for Third Party Monitoring (TPM)?
Yes. SmartLQA is well suited for TPM because it supports rapid sampling, digital data collection, PASS/FAIL classification, dashboards, and action tracking for accountability and follow-up.
7 Can SmartLQA collect data?
Yes. SmartLQA supports digital data collection using mobile app/web forms, including Yes/No indicators, timestamps, and optional GPS (if enabled).
8 Is the SmartLQA app free for data collection?
Yes. The SmartLQA data collection app is available on Android and is free to use for field data collection.
9 Can I download/export raw data?
Yes. Authorized users (e.g., Admin/M&E Lead) can export raw datasets for further analysis. Exports can be restricted by role and should be logged for governance.
10 Is my data secured?
Yes, when SmartLQA is configured with recommended safeguards: secure logins, role-based access, HTTPS encryption, controlled exports, and good data handling practices (avoid shared passwords and unsecured sharing).
11 How long will my data be stored?
Data is stored as long as your subscription is active. After subscription ends, data remains available for 6 additional weeks (42 days) to allow download/export, after which it may be removed as per retention policy.
12 Can SmartLQA provide a setup and onboarding session?
Yes. SmartLQA can provide a setup and onboarding session based on request. Sessions cover project setup, sampling design, indicator/target configuration, and dashboard interpretation.
13 Can I restrict users to only their areas?
Yes. SmartLQA supports role-based access and area-based permissions so users can view only their assigned projects/supervision areas.
14 Can SmartLQA support multiple users and roles?
Yes. Teams can work in SmartLQA with roles such as Admin, Supervisor/M&E Lead, Data Collector, and Viewer (read-only).
15 Can SmartLQA be used outside the health sector?
Yes. SmartLQA is sector-neutral. It works for any program where indicators can be measured (often as Yes/No), such as education monitoring, retail stock audits, infrastructure verification, humanitarian projects, and compliance checks.