Check sheets are simply charts for gathering data. When check sheets are designed clearly and cleanly, they assist in gathering accurate and pertinent data, and allow the data to be easily read and used. The design should make use of input from those who will actually be using the check sheets. This input can help make sure accurate data is collected and invites positive involvement from those who will be recording the data.
Check sheets can be kept electronically, simplifying the eventual input of the data into Statit. Statit can use data from all major spreadsheets, including Excel and Lotus 123, all major database programs and some other CQI software programs. Since most people have a spreadsheet program on their desktop PC, it might be easiest to design a check sheet in a spreadsheet format.
Check sheets should be easy to understand. The requirements for getting the data into an electronic format from paper should be clear and easy to implement.