Elite Research Explains Online Surveys

Aug. 15, 2012 - PRLog -- Elite Research explains online surveys. Elite Research is a global provider of research design and statistical consulting. They support academic, corporate, medical/health, and non-profit researchers in designing, collecting, analysing, and reporting accurate results.
   
Using an online survey is a data collection method used to gather information from participants for research. Online surveys are commonly used for psychological research and other behavioural sciences because they allow the researcher to collect self-report data from participants. These surveys are valuable resource when collecting demographic information as well as independent and dependent measures.

There are numerous advantages to using online surveys in comparison to other data collection options. Online surveys allow researchers to collect more data in less time because they can be shared with a broad audience very easily. This “paperless” option requires less materials and funding than other collection methods. Online surveys are easy to develop due to the resources available. There is software available to assist in the process or you can hire a consultant to help develop an effective and accurate survey to fit your needs. Administration is eased because participants can do it on their own time and in the comfort of their own home. Having it available online allows people to take the survey remotely making it more convenient.  Lastly, participants may be more likely to respond more honestly due to the increased anonymity of taking the survey from their home.

Online surveys can be a useful tool in data collection if executed properly; however, they also have their drawbacks. Poorly designed surveys can result in less accurate results. As is true with all measures of self-report, participants may not be completely honest in their responses, which may limit the generalizability of your study.

In order to reduce some of the risks that may be associated with online data collection, it may be helpful to work with a statistical consultant.  A consultant can help you choose surveys and measures that are psychometrically and empirically solid, which can increase the reliability and validity of your study.  Additionally, many consulting firms have email lists that can be used to distribute your survey to a much larger audience.
Contact Elite Research today to get reliable help with all of your statistical, research, and editorial needs! http://eliteresearch.com/ or (800) 806 – 5661.