What is survey design ?

A survey is a research method used to collect data from a large number of users. In HCI, surveys are used to understand and explore user perspectives about the product’s usability and to collect feedback and information about user attitudes. Standardized questionnaires are used in survey design.

Surveys:

• Allow the collection of large amounts of data in a short period of time.
• Are inexpensive as compared to other data collection techniques.
• Can be made and administered quickly.

Surveys consist of the following:

• Title
• Brief Introduction
• Contact Information (optional)
• Body (Questionnaire)
• Conclusion - thanking the participant

Types of surveys

There are two types of surveys:

• Open-ended surveys
• Close-ended surveys

Open-ended surveys

Open-ended surveys are free-form surveys that allow the respondents to answer in an open-text format. This gives respondents the liberty to fully express their opinion, understanding, and feedback. Such surveys reveal qualitative data.

Close-ended surveys

Close-ended surveys consist of questions that require respondents to choose from a set of previously defined responses. Close-ended surveys provide quantitative data. They are easier to understand and answer. Such surveys should be used to get only a specific set of responses and not unique ones like open-ended surveys. Close-ended surveys can consist of dichotomous questions, multiple-choice questions, etc.

Ask unbiased questions

The survey questions should never direct users to a certain response. Leading questions should be avoided.

Technical jargon used in the survey should be explained to the user. The questions should be clear and precise. Care should be taken not to trigger or be disrespectful towards the people.

Pilot test

The survey should be pre-tested in a pilot test with a few people. Feedback should then be taken and the survey should be redesigned before rolling it out on a large scale.