What should data acquisition follow according to best practices?

Data acquisition should follow a detailed collection plan set in advance to ensure that the process is systematic, consistent, and conducive to producing reliable and valid results. Having a structured plan helps researchers clearly define what data needs to be collected, the methods for collection, and the timing of data collection. This level of preparation limits bias and ensures that all necessary variables are accounted for, leading to more robust findings.

A detailed collection plan also facilitates better coordination among team members and helps align everyone’s efforts toward common research objectives. Moreover, it allows for proper training of staff involved in the data collection process, ultimately resulting in higher data quality.

In contrast, an informal approach with flexible guidelines can lead to inconsistencies and variability that may compromise the study's results. Relying solely on the principal investigator's preferences can overlook systematic methodologies that are crucial for research integrity and can introduce bias. Lastly, a dynamic method based on real-time observations, while useful in certain contexts, lacks the rigor needed for comprehensive data collection and could lead to fragmented or incomplete datasets. Thus, establishing a detailed collection plan is fundamental to upholding ethical standards and producing high-quality research outcomes.