Last week, the FEI tribe learned an advantage and disadvantage of the online survey research method for contacting potential survey respondents. This week, Marka and the team discusses more pros and cons of this method. Remember, fire = print.
“We already know that O-line research can be a versatile and inexpensive way to reach potential survey respondents. But there are additional considerations to keep in mind when deciding whether to launch an O-line survey initiative,” Marka said, then began writing on the whiteboard.
Advantage: Online Research is Fast
“Because O-web surveys allow respondents to offer instantaneous feedback, they help us gather pertinent survey data faster than with O-phone, O-mail or other methods,” Marka continued.
“How quickly can we gather this data?” Zoot asked.
“Estimates by professional survey research organizations have shown that 75-80 percent of a survey’s targeted response can be generated within 48 hours using O-line methods,” Marka replied. “On the other hand, an O-mail survey can take four to eight weeks to collect its survey information.”
“O-line surveys can also be implemented without employing the expensive personnel needed to conduct O-phone surveys,” Numo added.
“Numo, we know you’re hot on O-line survey research because of its low execution costs,” Marka said, “but let’s examine another significant problem with using the O-web for research.” More scribbling from Marka.
Disadvantage: Online Survey Research can be Prone to Technological Problems
“Internet surveys can be susceptible to technological problems such as browser viewing issues, slow loading time and even malware, all of which can impede the survey’s effectiveness and even do damage to our brand,” Marka noted.
“Enlisting a design or technology firm to create an O-web survey that’s attractive, brand consistent and, most importantly, completely functional, may be worth the investment,” Zoot suggested.
“Here we go again with cost,” Numo said, rolling his eyes.
Today’s FIRE! Point
Because Internet surveys allow respondents to offer instantaneous feedback, they can help you gather pertinent survey data faster than via phone, mail or other survey methods. On the other hand, online surveys can also be prone to technological problems, such as viewing issues, slow load time and even malware, all of which can impede the survey’s effectiveness and even do damage to your brand.
FIRE! in Action
Media Company Uses Online Research to Survey More Cost-Effectively
A global media and technology giant conducted a multi-stage online survey project to explore the future of a specific product category. Using an online approach not only helped it understand a new market, but saved the company 50 percent compared to an in-person survey effort.
Next week: the FEI team switches chariot gears and moves back into macro-marketing mode with a discussion on SWOT analysis.
- Categories:
- Business Management - Marketing/Sales
Very much alive and now officially an industry curmudgeon, strategic growth expert T. J. Tedesco can be reached at tj@tjtedesco.com or 301-404-2244.