A primer on web surveys.
With the advancement of computers and access to the Internet, surveys using the web are becoming increasingly popular. Such surveys save money by eliminating postage costs and save time by providing immediate access to returned surveys and improved data processing. This primer describes some considerations and suggestions related to the use of web surveys. In addition to issues of sampling error, question writing, and question sequencing, successful use of web surveys requires determining if a web survey is appropriate, determining the desired level of security and confidentiality, selecting design options that enhance the survey, conducting rigorous pilot testing, and implementing strategies to maximize response rate.
Austin
Tricia M
TM
Program in Physical Therapy, Doisy College of Health Sciences, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO 63104, USA. austintm@slu.edu
Richter
Randy R
RR
Reinking
Mark F
MF
D003625:Data Collection / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D020407:Internet; D012107:Research Design