Mailed questionnaire
A mailed questionnaire is a type of survey that is sent to respondents through the postal service or email. Here are some key characteristics and considerations:
Advantages:
- Cost-effective: Mailed questionnaires can be a cost-effective way to reach a large number of respondents, especially for surveys that require a high response rate.
- Flexibility: Respondents can complete the questionnaire at their own pace and in a comfortable environment.
- In-depth responses: Mailed questionnaires can elicit more in-depth responses, as respondents have time to think about their answers and provide detailed information.
Disadvantages:
- Lower response rates: Mailed questionnaires often have lower response rates compared to online surveys, as some respondents may not respond or may lose the questionnaire.
- Time-consuming: Mailed questionnaires require more time and effort to design, print, and mail, which can increase costs.
- Limited data analysis: Mailed questionnaires may not be suitable for complex data analysis, as respondents may not provide accurate or complete information.
Design considerations:
- Clear instructions: Provide clear instructions on how to complete the questionnaire and how to return it.
- Simple language: Use simple language and avoid technical jargon to ensure that respondents understand the questions.
- Short and concise: Keep the questionnaire short and concise to minimize respondent fatigue.
- Incentives: Consider offering incentives, such as a small gift or a chance to win a prize, to encourage respondents to complete the questionnaire.
- Data collection: Plan how you will collect and analyze the data, including how you will handle missing or incomplete responses.
Best practices:
- Pilot test: Pilot test the questionnaire with a small group of respondents to ensure that it is clear and effective.
- Use a clear and concise format: Use a clear and concise format, such as a survey monkey or a paper-based questionnaire, to make it easy for respondents to complete.
- Use a pre-paid return envelope: Provide a pre-paid return envelope to make it easy for respondents to return the questionnaire.
- Follow up: Follow up with non-respondents to encourage them to complete the questionnaire.
- Analyze the data: Analyze the data carefully to ensure that it is accurate and complete, and to identify any trends or patterns.
Example of a mailed questionnaire:
[Cover letter]
Dear [Respondent],
We are conducting a survey to gather information about [topic]. Your participation is greatly appreciated and will help us better understand [issue]. Please take a few minutes to complete the enclosed questionnaire and return it to us in the pre-paid envelope.
[Questionnaire]
- What is your age?
a) 18-24 b) 25-34 c) 35-44 d) 45-54 e) 55 or older
- What is your gender?
a) Male b) Female c) Other
- How often do you use [product/service]?
a) Daily b) Weekly c) Monthly d) Rarely e) Never
[Insert additional questions]
[Closing]
Thank you for taking the time to complete this questionnaire. Your responses are greatly appreciated and will help us better understand [issue]. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Sincerely, [Your Name]
[Pre-paid return envelope]