How to approach a dataset - Part 2: Data preparation

This is the second of three notes on "How to approach a dataset" that emerges from a needs assessment following a disaster. It addresses typical challenges of data management or, as some might say, data preparation. A companion note looks at the design of the database and another at analysis.

This note speaks to data analysts in needs assessment teams in post-disaster situations. It provides guidance for situations in which a new assessment dataset requires preparation before it is suitable for analysis. 
Assessment formats vary; prescribing a uniform process is not feasible. The steps of preparing for analysis are exemplified with a dataset from Bangladesh. They are demonstrated in the accompanying Excel workbook that can be downloaded here.

Our goal is to provide a rational and time-saving approach to confronting a new dataset as it reaches the analyst after data collection and entry. Our objective, in dealing with the Bangladesh data, is to document the data and transform the table from an appearance close to the questionnaire to a shape conducive to analysis and reporting.