Questionnaires: Paradigms and pitfalls

Abstract

Always use a questionnaire for a carefully thought out purpose, not just to collect data and then think what to do with it. Plan your analysis as part of the design process. Keep in mind the target audience for the information you collect and how the conclusions will be presented. Use an already validated questionnaire if you can. If none exists, you will need to seek expert advice, pilot the instrument (sometimes several times), and ensure that sources of bias and confounding are avoided as far as possible. Make your invitation to participate in completing the questionnaire stand out and make the process as short and easy to complete as possible. Good luck with your response rates!