What are mail surveys?
- Content Type:
- Glossary
Mail surveys Definition
A questionnaire sent and returned by regular mail to designated respondents.
Mail surveys are a method of collecting data where questionnaires are sent to respondents via postal mail. Recipients complete the survey on paper and return it to researchers, allowing data collection from individuals who may prefer or only have access to traditional mail rather than digital formats.
Who relies on mail surveys in market research?
Organizations targeting specific demographics, such as older adults or rural populations and researchers requiring representative samples across digital divides rely on mail surveys. Nonprofits, government agencies and companies targeting low-internet-access communities also utilize this method.
What are key aspects of mail surveys in market research?
Key aspects of mail surveys include:
- Broad reach: Allows access to audiences beyond the internet.
- Anonymity: Respondents may feel more comfortable giving honest answers.
- Flexibility in length: Paper surveys can be longer without risking dropout.
- High-quality responses: Paper format can encourage thoughtful answers.
Why are mail surveys important in market research?
Mail surveys are important because they provide access to demographics that might be underrepresented in online research, ensuring inclusivity and balanced data. They also allow for deeper engagement, as respondents may take more time to complete a paper survey, leading to richer data and insights.
How do market researchers use mail surveys?
Market researchers use mail surveys to gather insights on consumer behavior, preferences and opinions from specific populations. They design and distribute these surveys for feedback on products, services or public sentiment, later analyzing the returned responses to inform strategic decisions.