Marketing Research and Insight Glossary

Definitions, common uses and explanations of 1,500+ key market research terms and phrases.

What are Itemized rating scales?

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Itemized rating scales Definition

Scales in which the respondent selects an answer from a limited number of ordered categories.

Itemized rating scales are survey tools where respondents select from a set of ordered categories that represent varying levels of a particular attribute, such as satisfaction, agreement or likelihood. Each point on the scale is labeled with a specific description.

What are the key aspects of itemized rating scales in marketing research?

  • Include clearly defined response options.
  • Can be unipolar (e.g., "Not at all" to "Extremely") or bipolar (e.g., "Strongly Disagree" to "Strongly Agree").
  • Often use five-point, seven-point or 10-point scales.
  • Allow for easy quantification and comparison.
  • Support both descriptive and inferential analysis.

Why are itemized rating scales important in market research?

They provide a standardized way to measure subjective attributes, allowing for reliable data collection and analysis. These scales help quantify perceptions and attitudes, making it easier to identify patterns and draw actionable insights.

Who relies on itemized rating scales in marketing research?

  • Survey designers.
  • Consumer insights professionals.
  • Advertising and brand tracking teams.
  • Product development researchers.
  • Academic and social science researchers.

How do market researchers use itemized rating scales?

Researchers use itemized rating scales to assess customer satisfaction, brand perceptions, purchase intent and other key metrics. The responses are analyzed to identify trends, segment audiences and guide strategic decisions.