Tag Archives: Best Practice

Difference Between a Balanced and Unbalanced Rating Scales

Difference Between a Balanced and Unbalanced Rating Scales

Rating Scales are valuable measurement instruments in research. Researchers need to understand the properties of these scales, and their influences on the responses gathered from their use. Generally, balanced scales are being used in research. Findings show that there is a difference in results when a balanced scale is used instead of an unbalanced scale. […]

6 Common Survey Design Errors to Avoid

6 Common Survey Design Errors to Avoid

Many factors should be considered for a survey project to be a success, and as it turns out, only a couple of survey errors can lead to its downfall. To prevent this disastrous situation from happening to your research, we’ve listed the 6 Common Survey Errors to Avoid and some tips to manage them. Mistake […]

Effect of Numbering Mail Survey Return Envelopes

Effect of Numbering Mail Survey Return Envelopes

When the topic of a survey is sensitive or extremely private, the participant’s identity can be an important issue. In such a situation, anonymity and confidentiality may significantly affect the response rate. In a mail survey, some may wonder how an anonymous study, wherein, not even the researcher knows the respondents’ identity, is possible when […]

How to Write a Mail Survey Reminder

Reminders are known to be effective in increasing response rates for mail surveys. Many studies have shown that an important factor in survey success is the number of contacts made throughout the data collection project. (Dillman, 1978; Lavrakas, 1993; Willimack et al., 1995). The “Total Design Method” (TDM) of Dillman(1978) for data collection includes a […]

Sugging: A Condemned Survey Practice

Sugging: A Condemned Survey Practice

Have you ever thought about using “research” as a means of entry or acceptance to make a sales pitch for your company’s product or services? If so, you might not have heard of the term sugging yet. Sugging means “selling under the guise of research,” a term used in the research industry to describe the […]

How to Write a Mail Survey Reminder

Mail Survey Reminder is known to be effective in increasing response rates for mail surveys. Many studies have shown that an important factor in survey success is the number of contacts made throughout the data collection project. (Dillman, 1978; Lavrakas, 1993; Willimack et al., 1995). The “Total Design Method” (TDM) of Dillman(1978) for data collection […]

How to Choose a Survey Incentive

How to Choose a Survey Incentive

Providing survey incentives can significantly increase your response rate; however, it can also quickly drain your survey budget. So, don’t spend your resources aimlessly! Check out our list of the five elements to consider in choosing the most appropriate incentive for your survey and make sure you get the quality data your research needs. Budget […]

Tips in Creating Survey Prenotification Letters

Tips in Creating Survey Prenotification Letters

Many researchers have found that prenotification mailings can increase the effectiveness of surveys. Prenotification mailings are used for initial contact with survey participants, not only in the mail survey but also in other survey modes, like telephone and online surveys. The use of prenotification ensures that respondents don’t unintentionally ignore or disregard the survey. Moreover, […]

How to Avoid Over-Surveying Customers

Customer surveys are one of the best ways to learn about your organization’s products, services, strengths, and weaknesses. Unfortunately, doing a survey too often can lead to frustration and annoyance from your customers. Consequently, there is an increased likelihood of a decline in survey response rate, value, and integrity of the data you gather. To […]

Reasons to Avoid Sending Mail Surveys During the Holidays

Are you wondering if you should send your mail survey so close to the holidays? Learn the two main reasons we urge you to think twice and what to do if you cannot avoid it.

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