What is a Survey – Definition, templates, methods, characteristics, and examples

What is a survey?

A survey is a research method used to collect data from a predefined group of respondents to obtain information and insights on a variety of interesting topics. They can have different causes, and researchers can do so in many ways depending on the approach chosen and the goal of the study. In the year 2020, research is very important, so it is essential to understand the benefits of social research for a target population by using the right survey tool.

surveys network

Data is usually obtained using standard methods to ensure that each respondent can answer questions fairly to avoid biased opinions that could affect the outcome of the research or study. The process involves asking people for information through a questionnaire, which can be online or offline. However, with the advent of new technologies, it is common for those using digital media to distribute such as social networks, emails, QR codes or URLs.

What is an online survey?

An online survey is a set of structured questions that the respondent completes over the Internet, usually by filling out a form. It is a more natural way to reach respondents as it takes less time than the traditional way to gather information through one-to-one and cheaper interaction. The data is collected and stored in a database, which will be re-evaluated by an expert in the sector.

As an incentive for respondents to participate in such online research, companies offer rewards such as gift cards, reward points that they can redeem for goods or services later, free airline miles, discounts at gas stations, etc. Winning situation for both companies and interviewees. Businesses or organizations gain valuable data from a controlled market research environment.

Good models and survey examples

A researcher must conduct surveys using the right questions and the right means to administer and monitor the answers. Questioner is a platform that helps create and distribute different types and sets of questionnaires, surveys and quizzes.

We have over 350 varieties of survey templates. Included:

Customer Satisfaction Survey (CSAT) + Net Promoter Score (NPS): We often hear that the customer is king, which is true. A satisfied customer is a customer who helps your brand and your organization grow, through direct means, as well as being an advocate for your brand. This model is about the goodwill your brand has created and how referenceable it is.

Employee Satisfaction Framework: This framework is ideal for organizations looking to measure employee satisfaction levels. This structure will provide you with insight into the behavior of your organizations and the job satisfaction of your staff within that culture.

How to create a survey with a good design?

As explained above, a survey usually starts when a person, business or organization needs information and there isn't enough data available. Consider the following tips:

Define the purpose: The survey is meaningless if the purpose and outcome are not planned before sending. The investigation method and plan should be in the form of concrete interventions, as well as the model designed for research. Appropriate distribution methods for these laboratories should be placed first.

Number of questions: The number of questions used in the market research study depends on the ultimate goal of the research. It is important to avoid insufficient queries in every way possible. The length of the questionnaire should only be written in terms of the key data that should be collected.

Simplified language: One factor that can cause a level of drowsiness in the survey is that the respondent has difficulty understanding the language. Therefore, it is essential that the survey is used in an easily understandable text.

Characteristics of a survey

1. Sample and Sample Determination

First, a sample also referred to as the audience, is needed, which should consist of a series of survey respondents data with required demographic characteristics, who can relevantly answer your survey questions and provide the best insights. Better the quality of your audience, better will be your response quality and insights.

The characteristics of a survey sample, are:

Determining sample size: Once you have determined your sample, the total number of individuals in that particular sample is the sample size. Selecting a sample size depends on the end objective of your research study. It should consist of a series of survey respondent’s data with required demographic characteristics, who can relevantly answer your survey questions and provide the best insights.