An overall process template or checklist like the one below could help users keep track of each step of the survey process.
Survey Component | Notes |
Choose survey type | Self-administered Group-administered Mailed Telephone One-on-one interview Focus group |
Define objectives | Use a mind mapping tool |
Identify stakeholders | Use a stakeholder worksheet |
Select participants | Systematic (random) sample Convenience sample Snowball sample Unrestricted sample Recruited sample |
Define a desired response rate | |
Define the number of participants required | |
List potential participants | |
List pilot participants | |
Check overall layout and appearance | |
Create cover letter for pilot | |
Identify pilot feedback questions | |
Create cover letter | |
Determine follow-up method | |
Decide whether to offer an incentive to participants | |
Analysis | Identify the type of planned analysis, check for outlying data, incorrect values, and missing data. Additional analysis will depend on the actual results. |
Report audience | |
Determine written report contents | Title page Authors Sponsors Contributors Name of organization Location of survey Introduction Survey characteristics Survey methods (e.g., design of survey, sample, analysis of data) Results Results analysis and conclusions Recommended next steps Appendixes |