Overview of three field methods for improving coverage of address-based samples for in-person interviews

Abstract

Address frames based largely on United States Postal Service lists can have shortcomings for in-person surveys in areas with non-locatable addresses. To give every housing unit a known, nonzero probability of selection, field methods may be implemented to improve frame coverage. Three coverage improvement methods currently in use in the survey research industry are compared-Enhanced Listing, Check for Housing Units Missed (CHUM), and Address Coverage Enhancement (ACE)-so that the reader may understand their similarities and differences. Such a comparison is useful for research practitioners and survey designers who need to consider nuances in frame construction methods that weigh cost, effectiveness, and ease of implementation.