Submitting Data
Data Entry Methods
There are three methods for entering DIRT data: (1) single reports, (2) bulk upload and (3) utilizing an API. Below is a table with descriptions of each method, but note that any number of records can be entered by any method.
|
DIRT Data Entry Method |
Description |
|
Single Reports |
Select “Enter Report” on DIRT Main Menu and enter reports individually |
|
Bulk Upload |
Enter multiple reports (CSV spreadsheet) via “File Upload” on DIRT Main Menu |
|
API |
Connect your API to DIRT to automate report uploads* |
*Utilizing an API
Large organizations submitting many records may choose to utilize an API to extract data from an internal record system and transfer it to DIRT. In this case, you can use approved app integrator Launchpoint or JSON (JavaScript Object Notation), XML (Extensible Markup Language), or SOAP (Simple Object Access Protocol) methods to automatically transfer data into DIRT. These methods often require the time and resources of an IT department or software developers to set up, but can save time later on by automating the process. CGA and DPI recommend submitting a Support/Feedback ticket if interested in pursuing this method of data entry, and staff will get back to you to discuss the best path forward.
Data Grants
The Data Grants feature in DIRT allows organizations to voluntarily share DIRT data with one another. The feature lists the organizations that are set up to receive data from other organizations. The person designated as the Company Administrator within your DIRT profile can then select organizations to share your data with. Geo-limits can also be set – for example, a multi-state company sharing with several 811 centers can set it so that each center only has access to reports within that state.
Once set up, Data Grants can be revoked or modified at any time. When the Data Receiving organizations use the Query Wizard feature in DIRT to generate reports for internal/local analysis, data from the granting organizations can be included.
Field Form Overview
DIRT does not accept hard-copy paper reports. However, we provide a DIRT Field Form PDF that can be printed and used to collect data on-site when investigating a damage or near miss, and then referenced later for actual data entry. It also serves as a quick reference for the DIRT data fields and options available to fill those fields.