Methods for the design and administration of Web-based surveys

Author(s): Forrest, J. L.

Journal/Book: J Amer Med Inform Assoc. 2000; 7: 210 S 13Th St, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA. Hanley & Belfus Inc. 416-425.

Abstract: This paper describes the design, development, and administration of a Web-based survey to determine the use of the Internet in clinical practice by 450 dental professionals. The survey blended principles of a controlled mail survey with data collection through a Web-based database application. The survey was implemented as a series of simple HTML pages and tested with a wide variety of operating environments. The response rate was 74.2 percent. Eighty-four percent of the participants completed the Web-based survey, and 16 percent used e-mail or fax. Problems identified during survey administration included incompatibilities/technical problems, usability problems, and a programming error. The cost of the Web-based survey was 38 percent less than that of an equivalent mail survey. A general formula for calculating breakeven points between electronic and hardcopy surveys is presented. Web-based surveys can significantly reduce turnaround time and cost compared with mail surveys and may enhance survey item completion rates.

Note: Article Schleyer TKL, Temple Univ, Sch Dent, Dept Dent Informat, 3223 N Broad St, TU 600-00, Philadelphia,PA 19140 USA

Keyword(s): DATA-COLLECTION; INTERNET

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