How to use WeWeb to develop a citizen science data collection platform?

Step 1: Understand What WeWeb Is

WeWeb is an online tool that provides a platform for someone without coding skills to develop and design a website. It has a user-friendly interface and provides a variety of templates to choose from. Before applying WeWeb in a project, it is important to understand what tools and resources it offers and how they work.

Step 2: Gather Information About the Data Collection Platform

Before starting to build a citizen science data collection application on WeWeb, it's crucial to have a clear idea of what type of data this application will handle. This includes what form the data will take, how it will be collected, what kind of citizens will be involved, and what the aggregate data will be used for. These details will help in tailoring the application to the requirements of the data collection project.

Step 3: Get Started on WeWeb

Once the understanding of WeWeb and the needs of the citizen science data collection platform is in place, navigate to the WeWeb homepage. Here, you will sign up for an account or log in if you already have one. The sign-up process is straightforward and involves providing an email address and setting a password.

Step 4: Choose a Template or Start From Scratch

WeWeb provides templates that you can use as a starting point for your application. However, given the specificity of a citizen science data collection platform, the best course of action may be to start from scratch. This allows for more customization and ensures that the features of the application match the needs of the project.

Step 5: Structure the Website

The first key step in building the collection platform is to structure the website. This includes creating the home page, an introduction or 'about us' page, a page for form submission, and any other pages that may be helpful. With WeWeb, you can drag and drop different elements onto your pages and arrange them as you see fit.

Step 6: Design the Form

The form is where the data collection happens, so careful design is required. Depending on the type of data being collected, fields may include a place for users to enter their names, their geographic locations and answers to specific questions related to the data being collected. The form field creation tool can be found by clicking on the "Components" tab in the WeWeb interface.

Step 7: Customize the Design

Once the form and structure are in place, take some time to customize the design. This will make the platform more inviting and easier to use. WeWeb provides a set of design tools that can change the color scheme, typography, and other style elements.

Step 8: Configure Data Collection and Storage

The data submitted through the form needs to be stored so that it can be aggregated and analyzed. In the settings tab of the form field creation tool, you will find options for configuring how and where this data will be stored.

Step 9: Preview the Site

Before saving and publishing your site, use the preview feature to see how your site will look to users. Experiment with submitting data through the form to ensure that everything works as it should.

Step 10: Publish the Website

When you're satisfied with how the site looks and operates, it's time to publish your site. Simply click the “Publish” button and follow the prompts. Your citizen science data collection platform is now live.

Step 11: Training and Outreach

Once the site is built, it's important to outreach to citizens and provide adequate training so they understand how to use the platform effectively. This may involve creating a user guide, hosting webinars, or one-on-one training sessions.

Step 12: Monitor and Adjust as Needed

After the launch, keep an eye on the platform to ensure it works perfectly. This involves checking on received data frequently, fixing any bugs or issues that arise in time, and making occasional adjustments for optimization.

WeWeb has made it significantly easier to create websites, even one as seemingly complicated as a citizen science data collection platform. With some patience and careful planning, you can have your platform up and running in just a few short steps.