A survey is a research method used for collecting data from a predefined group of respondents to gain information and insights into various topics of interest. They can have multiple purposes, and researchers can conduct it in many ways depending on the methodology chosen and the study’s goal. In the year 2020, research is of extreme importance, and hence it’s essential for us to understand the benefits of social research for a target population using the right survey tool.
The data is usually obtained through the use of standardized procedures to ensure that each respondent can answer the questions at a level playing field to avoid biased opinions that could influence the outcome of the research or study. The process involves asking people for information through a questionnaire, which can be either online or offline. However, with the arrival of new technologies, it is common to distribute them using digital media such as social networks, email, QR codes, or URLs.
An online survey is a set of structured questions that the respondent completes over the internet, generally through filling out a form. It is a more natural way to reach out to the respondents as it is less time consuming than the traditional way of gathering information through one to one interaction and less expensive. The data is collected and stored in a database, which is later evaluated by an expert in the field.
As an incentive for respondents to participate in such online research, businesses offer rewards like gift cards, reward points that they can redeem for goods or services later, free airline miles, discounts at gas stations, etc. Research studies with rewards are a win-win situation for both businesses and respondents. Companies or organizations get valuable data from a controlled environment for market research.