Enabling Data-Driven Exploration: A Novel Integration of DHIS2 and OpenCPU for Statistical Analysis within an Interactive Application

This abstract has been accepted at the 2024 DHIS2 Annual Conference


Enabling Data-Driven Exploration: A Novel Integration of DHIS2 and OpenCPU for Statistical Analysis within an Interactive Application

This abstract introduces a project on data exploration and analysis in the DHIS2 ecosystem. Our intervention integrates DHIS2 data retrieval via API and OpenCPU-powered real-time R code execution within a web application. Utilizing DHIS2 API: Leveraging the DHIS2 API, our intervention ensures efficient data extraction directly from the DHIS2 database, circumventing the laborious process of individual dataset downloads. Prioritizing data security, the app’s architecture maintains confidentiality, providing users a streamlined, error-free experience. Interactive Statistical Analysis with OpenCPU: A key feature of our application is the integration of OpenCPU, offering users a dynamic platform for real-time execution of R code. Emulating RStudio’s layout, the app’s GUI includes dropdown menus for dataset selection and a text box for code entry. Addressing Challenges: This application mitigates challenges associated with traditional methods, such as time-consuming downloads and potential data security risks. By consolidating DHIS2 data retrieval and statistical analysis, our approach simplifies workflows, fostering an environment where users can interactively explore datasets without compromising security. Impact Assessment: Our intervention significantly enhances data exploration efficiency and promotes user-driven statistical analyses. By empowering users to interactively select datasets, compose R code, and witness real-time results, the application facilitates a dynamic and responsive analytical process. This shift towards user autonomy is expected to elevate the overall impact of DHIS2 utilization, enabling more informed decision-making and yielding meaningful outcomes. Conclusion: In summary, our project introduces an application that integrates DHIS2 data retrieval and OpenCPU for interactive statistical analysis. Addressing challenges in data exploration, our approach emphasizes efficiency, security, and user autonomy. Beyond technical enhancements, this intervention promises an impact on how DHIS2 is leveraged for dynamic data analysis.

Primary Author: Shikhar Shukla


Keywords:
DHIS2, OpenCPU, Integration, Custom App, R code, Statistical Analysis, User Interface, GUI, API, Web application, data exploration

3 Likes