Modernizing price data extraction with the Automatic Price Collection Tool

The Automatic Price Collection Tool (APCT), developed by the price statistics team at ESCWA, is an innovative solution in the field of price statistics. With advanced features facilitating automated and efficient data collection, the APCT is strategically designed to navigate the evolving landscape of statistical methodologies, especially in price data collection.

Within the framework of the APCT, a series of training workshops are being held to provide participants with in-depth knowledge of the tool, build their capacities in constructing it for different outlets, and guide them on the effective utilization, updating and leveraging of its advanced functionalities for automated data collection.

The workshops include the following:

• The need to embrace modern approaches in price data collection, introducing scanner data and web scraping as highly effective methods. 
• A deep understanding of the APCT, emphasizing its fundamental purpose and functionality.
• A delve into the diverse components that form the foundation of the APCT, elucidating the various elements upon which the tool relies for its operation and effectiveness.
• A thorough exploration of web scraping, clarifying its role as a methodology for extracting valuable price data from websites.   
• An immersive exploration of programming fundamentals essential for the effective utilization of the APCT, accompanied with a practical progression of skills directly applicable to APCT implementation.
• A thorough understanding of the underlying mechanisms of online price data, offering insights into the markup and scripting languages that shape the presentation of prices on outlet websites.
• A comprehensive exploration of Selenium's powerful capabilities within the APCT scope, complemented by a practical workshop designed to furnish participants with the essential skills required to harness Selenium effectively within the APCT environment.
• An in-depth examination of Hypertext Markup Language, with emphasis on the extraction of price data from diverse online outlet stores. 
• A collaborative group application crafted to empower participants with the indispensable techniques needed to independently create an Automatic Price Collection Tool.
• A thorough comparative examination of the variables shaping the design and operation of the APCT.