Web-based questionnaires: Lessons learned from practical implementation of a pharmacoepidemiological study

Abstract

Web-based questionnaires may offer advantages over traditional methods of data collection, including a less administrative workload and reduced respondent burden. However, the implementation of this mode of data collection carries other challenges and may demand more technical expertise to be designed and delivered. Here, we use the preliminary data from a survey developed to estimate the prevalence of methylphenidate use for cognitive enhancement among undergraduate and graduate students, to share the lessons we learned while implementing this online mode of data collection. We show that surveys using a web-based questionnaire should be carried out by a multidisciplinary team with support from Information Science specialists. Limitations to access these resources or budget constraints may demand a considerable effort to assure the success of the survey. Web-questionnaires are usually described as easy to use and economically encouraging. Therefore, we believe our experience, and the lessons we learned, may be a relevant resource for researchers from general backgrounds intending to undertake their first web-questionnaire.