Reach people without the internet; the traditional self-completion survey.

One of the oldest survey techniques, yet the postal survey still has a place in modern market research.  A 10% response is a good average.  But if you have a hot topic, a well-designed questionnaire, good publicity and suitable reminders, you can get it up to 30% or more.

  • Postal surveys are particularly effective in reaching those people not on the internet.
  • A major advantage of postal surveys is that they can be completed at home in private.
  • They are a very cost effective method for approaching large populations where evidence of everyone being offered an opportunity to respond is important.
  • Respondents anonymity in postal surveys is enhanced by using Freepost or Business Reply return envelopes. It can also improve responses, both quality and quantity.
  • Postal surveys allow you to use your own designed material – with logo and letter head if you want, as well as illustrations and stimulus material.

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A major drawback of postal surveys is that participants select themselves so control over quota is poor. However, we use a range of follow up techniques to encourage response. This can be especially important when a statistically sound level of response is required from specific sectors.

By taking a general’ rule of thumb’ 10% response for postal surveys, you can calculate how many surveys you need to post out. You can usually achieve a statistically reliable response by obtaining 400 responses with a +/- 5% confidence interval – generally robust enough.

We are able to carry out all elements of a postal survey, questionnaire design and print, stuffing, mailing, return post, data entry and analysis but are happy to provide those elements which complement your in house capabilities.

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