Title: 3. Tools of the trade – methods of data collection
Course: UGQuants (SSPS) > Section: Survey Design

Tools of the trade – methods of data collection

Having considered what or who we want to survey, we will now consider how we go about administering our survey; in other words, how do we collect data? There are a variety of methods of data collection and the decision on which one to choose is influenced by a range of factors. Firstly, issues of survey administration and resources must be considered. In terms of resources, as will be seen, the differing methods of data collection are associated with varying tariffs of cost and time. The selected method must therefore be consistent with the financial and time constraints of the project. Again in terms of survey administration, it will be seen that issues of sample dispersion have implications for the method of data collection. Secondly, consideration must be given to the questionnaire design. As will be seen, questionnaire length, complexity, question order, question format and content are all important considerations when selecting the method of data collection. Thirdly, consideration should be given to issues of data quality. Again as will be seen, the method of data collection can have repercussions for sample frame bias, response rates, response bias, response selection, data capture and the quality of respondents’ answers.

It can be seen that there is much to be born in mind when selecting a method of data collection. Consideration will now be given to the key methods of data collection and their associated strengths and weaknesses.