Guide to Internet Survey Research

Compare several different survey research companies

Choosing an online survey system is a sometimes frustrating task. Don't be afraid to seek the specific information you need to make the wisest choice in choosing a survey research firm. Have a clear picture of the information you seek and see how it matches the Internet survey services offered by a variety of companies.

I recommend: The survey selector tool offered by Inquisite, a survey software designer, aims to make the selection process a little easier by narrowing the pool of options.

Make internet surveys work for you

Have a clear picture of the survey research information you hope to glean. This will help you decide which questions need to be asked and what kind of Internet survey services to look for. What data will validate whether or not you have achieved your goals? You have to envision what results you want the survey to yield. It is also critical to understand the position of others who will be reviewing the results so pertinent questions are included.

I recommend: Draft a sample survey, like the one offered by Constant Contact, and run it by a test market both externally and internally.

Check the price before making a decision on survey research firms

Producing online surveys may be cheaper than conducting paper surveys, but prices still vary a great deal from one survey research firm to the next. Make sure you're getting what you pay for.

I recommend: Many survey research companies will let you view a demo version  like this one from SurveyMethods before signing on or downloading software or templates for free. Others will give you an instant quote. Options vary from a basic free package to a pay-per survey system to a multi-dimensional Internet market research. Just as the options vary, so do the prices. Be sure to shop around.