|
So you've created a great survey, implemented it, and received the results. But now it’s time to process and analyze the results yielded, so you can determine how to best use the insight provided. Shifting through the vast amount of data produced from various survey methods can be a challenge. Often, in this case, knowledge of statistics, computer applications, and survey data analysis approaches can help you make sense of results.
Processing Data
The first step in the survey data analysis is to process the results. Computer applications can be helpful in sorting and organizing data. You’ll also have to edit the data yielded from survey results. This is an important step that many business owners fail to take. Editing is essential because it ensures that the data is accurate and complete before you begin trying to determine how you can use it to improve your business.
Of course, you’ll need to lay out the data in a useable format that allows you to compare the different survey groups. Charts and graphs are a great way to visually organize survey results for analysis. Tables are ideal if you're working with precise numbers and there are few comparisons. Graphs make it simple to compare datasets. The great thing about online survey software is that it can help you organize and view data in a way that’s simple to make sense of it.
General Overview of Survey Results
The best way to begin to make sense of survey data is to compile a general overview using survey software. Age, gender, and geographic location is information that should be separated and categorized first. Also, what was the response rate? Was it better than expected? Or was it lackluster? When generating an overview of data you should want to take note of data that was most interesting to you.
Find Hidden Treasures and Outline High Points
When interpreting data results you can use a survey tool to find hidden gems and other interesting facts in your data results. When you get lost in the statistic, charts, and graphs, it prevents you from being able to see the trends. Take note of what has elicited the most responses, what results were expected, unexpected and unusual. When you see unexpected or unusual results, don’t dismiss them. Investigate further to see if it may apply more broadly than your respondent sample.
Know the Limits of Precision
Understanding the limits of precision with the dataset you’re analyzing is crucial. Remember, while surveys can provide you with lots of insight, it represents just a small fraction of that particular demographic.
Yes, surveys can be useful for gathering important feedback from customers, which helps you make informed business decisions. Clearly defining the purpose of your survey at the onset will help you be able to better understand survey data. Once you’ve processed, analyzed, and interpreted results, you must implement insights that could benefit your products, services, and most importantly — your customers.
|