A method and system for collecting data that employs selectable pictographs, as presented via an interface, that a user can select and populate a data field by correlating what is observed or what actions are taken with the available selectable pictographs. Once the selectable pictographs are selected and the relevant data field populated the information contained in the pictograph is stored in a computer readable medium and/or database. The method and system of the present invention as applied to the health care field provides for increased efficiencies to those providing health services and aids in lowering health care costs.