Local firms and organisations have been urged to embrace new hitech tools in data collection and processing to ensure efficiency and accuracy.

Dr Nicole Ueberschar, a consultant at Esri Rwanda Limited, said tools like geographic information systems (GIS) makes it ease and fast for firms and other users to collect and process data, adding that it is also reduces errors.

"Therefore, firms that use new technology-based tools are able to produce more reliable information in a short period compared those that employ traditional methods,” the expert said.

However, for firms and organisations to be able to collect "smart” data, they have to first understand and identify the kind of information they need before going to the field, she added.

Ueberschar added that it is also important to use data collection tools and technology that are appropriate to their context to avoid errors.

She was speaking during an event to mark annual GIS Day at Impact Hub Kigali on Wednesday.

During the function, different organisations working with geographic information systems showcased tools and platforms they use for data collection, analysis and visualisation.

Ueberschar said using GIS also enables individuals and firms to "easily manage, analyse, integrate, visualise, map, make decisions, as well as connect and share information with other companies”. To employ these hitech tools, firms need to install data apps like Arc GIS.

Annina Hirschi Wyss, a GIS consultant Esri Rwanda, said the software can also be installed on mobile phones easing accessing to the facility.