15-02-2013, 04:39 PM
Designing an Effective Survey
Designing an Effective Survey.pdf (Size: 2.6 MB / Downloads: 57)
Abstract
A survey can characterize the knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors of a large group of people through the study of a subset of them. However, to protect the validity of conclusions drawn from a survey, certain procedures must be followed throughout the process of designing, developing, and distributing the survey questionnaire.
Surveys are used extensively by software and systems engineering organizations to provide insight into complex issues, assist with problem solving, and support effective decision making.
This document presents a seven-stage, end-to-end process for conducting a survey.
Introduction
Survey-based research can be used to characterize the knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors of a large group of people through the study of a subset of them. For this reason, surveys are used extensively by software and systems engineering organizations to provide insight into complex issues, assist with problem-solving, and support effective decision making.
Objective of this document
A survey is the collection of data using a standardized questionnaire. In this document, the survey is described as a seven-stage process.
The objective of this document is to show people how to conduct a survey. An end-to-end process is outlined that describes each stage. By following the process, you will end up with a successful survey.
Intended audiences
The primary audience for this document is individuals who are, or will be, responsible for designing and developing a survey. But, as discussed in upcoming sections, an effective survey is typically the result of a team effort. All survey team members would benefit from understanding the survey process approach described in this document.
The secondary audience for this document is individuals who read and use survey results. Knowing the details of the survey process can help them judge whether the survey method used to produce the results was competent.
Document format
This document was designed to support a broad audience of readers with varying information needs. Each page is labeled at the top to show readers where they are in the document. Information is chunked and labeled to support scanning, while also providing accessible detail to those who have a more comprehensive need for information.
A number of sections contain overviews that provide information relevant for the upcoming subsections. The overviews also act as information organizers to provide readers with advance notice of what to expect in those section.
Document Overview (continued)
Document organization
The document is organized into the following main sections:
• What is Survey Research?
• The Survey Research Process
• After the Survey
The “What is Survey Research?” section provides an introduction for those who might be wondering if a survey is the best way to conduct their research. The strengths and limitations of surveys are discussed in that section.
The core substance of this document is contained in the “Survey Research Process” section. The process is described as a seven-stage approach and is discussed in seven subsections.
The “After the Survey” section briefly discusses typical post-survey activities.