The VIVA Process

This initial step lays the groundwork for engaging stakeholders and facilitates subsequent steps in implementing the system. It is important to obtain buy-in from in-country government leadership and stakeholders, and to consider budget and financing options to ensure continuous and long-term implementation. Institutional capacity, financial and human resources, and strategies for sustainability should be discussed and determined. 

This second step encourages a deeper understanding of the existing mortality data systems in-country, and how the new VIVA system will fit within the country’s current data landscape. You will determine key mortality indicators to be measured, and whether formative research activities should be carried out to identify community monitoring strategies and key actors. 

Various design options and strategies support continuous data collection: relying on an existing civil registration system, conducting annual household surveys, and continuously monitoring vital events in randomly selected geographic clusters.

Statistics measured, such as mortality rates, may be representative at the national and subnational (provincial/regional, or district) levels. It is important to define the sampling frame and the domains of statistical estimation. Once these are defined, a sample size can be calculated.

The tools needed for data collection are determined by the type of data that will be collected. Examples include a household population listing form, household registration form, and vital event recording forms.

Selecting the appropriate hardware and software is crucial for ensuring effectiveness. IT needs should be considered at the system’s central, provincial/regional, and community levels. 

Other equipment and supplies must be procured prior to the system’s launch. Items such as vehicles, motorbikes, bicycles, laptops and tablets, printers and office space should be considered. 

An organizational structure is required to manage staff, and a team of specialists at the central, provincial/regional, and community levels. Capacity building must be considered to ensure system longevity.

Prior to routine data collection and data monitoring, cluster mapping and population enumeration must be conducted. Cartography and baseline population activities must be carried out to create the foundation for routine system data collection.

Routine data collection may consist of household data and verbal autopsy interviews. Household data includes information on events such as pregnancies, pregnancy outcomes, and deaths.

Data analysis is important for monitoring incoming data, improving data collection, and for sharing results with national and international stakeholders.

To ensure data quality, system assessment processes should be incorporated into the design. This includes reviewing the data collection process, data quality and completeness, and its comparability with other data. The population listing, sample, and design may also be updated during this step.