Questionnaire Surveys

Inter-ed has considerable experience of conducting small and large scale questionnaire based surveys. Where appropriate, we can provide detailed statistical analysis using both parametric and non-parametric statistical tests to measure for significance.

Typically, questionnaires are structured firstly to gather essential information in a manner which enables ease of completion and analysis. This might involve seeking simple tick box responses to well structured questions such as:

Tick Box response example

Secondly, opinions may be sought. These can be gathered using a variety of techniques. Two examples follow.

The first is a statement reacting technique increasingly used in major survey work, the second is a free response question. Statement reacting techniques are very powerful at providing opportunities for quantitative analysis. Free response questions are high in "ecological validity" but can call for sophisticated content analysis, and do not always lend themselves to robust quantitative analysis. The questioning style should be chosen dependent upon the needs of the client, and in particular the use to which the analysis will be put.

Statement reacting example

Free response example

Questionnaires can go beyond mere data gathering or opinion measuring. For example we specialise in areas of judgment and decision making as a company, and have developed sophisticated approaches to capturing the judgments of those under study using techniques informed by Multi-Attribute Utility Theory, or by Bayesian principles. Examples are available to prospective clients, from Barbara Mullin who co-ordinates our survey work.

The design of questionnaires should be a joint venture between Inter-ed and the client. Inter-ed's task is to make sure the research provides exactly the type of information needed by the client to aid subsequent decision making, planning and action.