File Formats -- GPS Datasets

Recode Data | GPS Data | Merging Data Files

Geographic data are provided in .DBF and .MDB format. Each data file averages around 100KB in size. Users may import either file type into their GIS software package.
The following information is included in the geographic data file:

• The administrative units in which the point is located
• Whether the point is located in an urban or rural area
• The coordinates of the center of the populated area surveyed, expressed in decimal degrees and degrees and minutes.
• The altitude at the cluster location in meters.
• Whether the point was collected with a GPS unit or approximated using a map or gazetteer.
• The geographic datum used in recording, WGS84, unless otherwise specified in the file.

Linking GPS data to DHS/AIS data files

The geographic data file contains the cluster ID that corresponds to the cluster ID in each of the survey datasets (individual woman, child, births, etc.). Depending on the type of analysis, you may choose to aggregate the DHS data or simply attach new information to the DHS data files within your GIS.

Other Resources

Learn more about how MEASURE DHS collects geographic information
GPS Data FAQ's