Survey and questionnaire are the two methods of acquiring data, from the respondents, based on interrogation. Both of them are methods used in the gathering primary data, whether it is for the marketing of a product, or collecting information from people on social issues. Surveys are the conventional way of carrying out research in which the respondents are questioned, with respect to their behaviour, awareness, motivations, demographics, and other characteristics.
Conversely, Questionnaires are a tool of acquiring data on a particular topic, which involves distributing forms that comprise of questions relating to the topic under study. This article is presented for you to know the differences between survey and questionnaire.
Content: Survey Vs Questionnaire
Comparison Chart
| Basis for Comparison | Survey | Questionnaire |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning | Survey refers to the collection, recording and analysis of information on a particular subject, an area or a group of people. | Questionnaire implies a form containing a list of ready made questions, delivered to people for obtaining statistical information. |
| What is it? | Process of collecting and analyzing data | Instrument of data collection |
| Time | Time consuming process | Fast process |
| Use | It is conducted on the target audience. | It is distributed or delivered to the respondents. |
| Questions | Open/close ended | Closed ended |
| Answers | Subjective or Objective | Objective |
Definition of Survey
By the term survey, we mean a research process, used for orderly collection and analysis of information, from a group of people to measure opinions, thoughts, experiences, etc. It is not confined to gathering information using questions, but it also encompasses observations, measurement, evaluation of data and judgment of the researcher.
A survey can have different forms like a survey of the whole population is known as the census, but it can also be conducted on a representative sample of a group with a view to drawing conclusions on a larger population. A sample survey is a widely used method because of its cost effectiveness, speed, and practical approach. There are many modes of carrying out surveys:
- Face to face survey (Interview)
- Questionnaire
- Telephonic survey
- Postal or mail out survey
- Internet-based survey
- Email survey
- Web-based survey
Definition of Questionnaire
The term questionnaire refers to a form, which contains a set of survey questions, so designed, with a view to extracting certain information from the respondent. The instrument includes questions, instructions, and spaces for answers. The questions to be asked are so framed, to obtain straightforward information from the respondents.
A questionnaire has a written and printed format, delivered or distributed to people to provide responses to facts or opinions. The surveyor uses these responses for statistical analysis. It is mainly used for gathering factual information, with an intention to bifurcate people and their circumstances.
Key Differences Between Survey and Questionnaire
The difference between survey and questionnaire can be drawn clearly on the following grounds:
Conclusion
‘Survey’ is an umbrella term that includes a questionnaire, interview, observation method as a tool for collecting information. Although, the best, quickest and inexpensive way of conducting a survey, is the questionnaire. Surveys are usually conducted for research or studies, while questionnaire is used just to collect information such as job application or patient history form, etc.
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