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Planning Checklist for Community Surveys

Start with our survey checklist and design effective and engaging surveys

Tess O'Brien avatar
Written by Tess O'Brien
Updated over a year ago

The most impactful surveys start with clear objectives. These objectives will inform the questions asked, the target audience, and the strategy for applying results. Below are a few principles to set your survey up for success.

1. Does this data already exist?

  • Check previous research to see if work has been done on this topic. Protecting communities from over-messaging builds trust and improves digital experiences.

  • To enhance existing information, outline lessons learned and other current insights.

2. Is it the right time to use a survey?

  • Surveys work best when quantifying something, such as what percentage of users are satisfied with their trash collection service.

  • Surveys are also great for collecting information that can’t be gathered from reviewing analytics, such as sentiment.

  • Use feedback to improve communication. EngagementHQ surveys are especially useful for enhancing community understanding and adapting outreach strategies such as connecting topics in govDelivery to corresponding consultation in EngagemementHQ.

3. Are survey goals clear?

Ask these questions before crafting a survey:

  • What information is being gathered?

  • Why is this information needed?

  • What decisions can be made from feedback?

4: Get started!

With a clear need for a survey, as well as a clear goal and understanding of how to achieve it, it’s time to get started.

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