When gathering data, you may require using more than one type of survey, depending on your goals and purposes. Here’s a list of steps that you can take to use a survey method to gather relevant information:

1. Identify a goal and target audience

The first step in using a survey method to gather information is to determine your goal for the study. For example, it may be to assess public perception of a brand or gauge how a new store location affects consumer habits. Once you determine your goal, you can determine your target audience and consider the most efficient way to reach those people. For example, if the survey is relevant to participants in your region, mail-outs may be a suitable option. If you’re surveying the perception of a new digital marketing campaign, an online approach may be the best option.

2. Determine your budget

Once you determine the survey method that suits the project goal and target audience, you can assess the cost. Some survey methods are low cost, while others require a significant investment in time and money. Determine the value of the information the survey results offer and ensure that it’s more than the cost of performing the survey.

If you have a large budget, consider doing multiple surveys to gather the information for your specific needs. You can begin with an online survey or a mail-out, then follow up by engaging participants in a panel or focus group. Assess the cost of the ideal approach and make adjustments as the budget dictates.

3. Write your questions

Once you have determined your survey approach, main goal, and budget, you can create your questions. Depending on the survey method you choose, the type of questions you use may differ. For instance, an online or phone survey works better with short, clear questions and pre-set answers. In-person interviews and focus groups require questions that prompt conversation and encourage participants to elaborate on their answers. Consider the number of questions and how they affect survey participation. Regardless of the type of survey, it’s important to keep survey participants engaged throughout the process.

4. Proceed with the survey

After consulting with your team and getting project approval, you can conduct the survey itself. Here are a list of actions you can take when you are ready to administer your survey and gather relevant information:

1. Reach out to your target audience and recruit participants or create a list of people to who you plan to send the survey.
2. Set a timeline for the survey project and determine whether it’s ongoing or a fixed date.
3. Wait for participants to complete the survey and return it for analysis.
4. Compile the survey results and analyze the data using information modelling techniques.
5. Use the results to answer the foundational question of your survey.
6. Act on the resulting information accordingly.
7. Follow-up with survey participants to thank them for their efforts and encourage
participation in future studies.