How to deliver a successful survey project

A successful survey project depends upon having 1) a robust process and 2) expertise in designing surveys, getting responses, analysing results, presenting results and planning action and 3) the right survey software. Establishing clear survey goals and objectives is the key starting point for a survey project. Goals provide overarching direction and the primary aim of the project. Goals guide decision making. Objectives are specific and measurable steps to meet the goals. Start with goals and then break them down into the objectives. Here is a simple survey process outlining the project steps to follow to ensure success.

Plan the survey project
Design and pilot the survey
Get survey responses
Analyze the survey results and develop recommendations
Present the results and plan action

The survey project steps

Step 1: Plan the survey project

Agree the scope, survey project objectives and target audience
Consult with key stakeholders about the survey requirements
Create a steering committee in need
Define the key survey policies for the project (e.g. anonymity, confidentiality, level of access to results)
Develop the project plan and project steps

Step 2: Design & pilot the survey & communications

Define the reporting requirements (demographic, target groups, etc.)
Design the survey and communications
Pilot the survey and communications and refine. Pilot again in need.
Obtain survey sign-off

Step 3: Get responses

Set up the project and obtain participant details
Distribute surveys and provide support
Ensure confidentiality and anonymity policies are met
Follow up surveys to achieve/exceed target response rates

Step 4: Analyse results & develop recommendations

Analyse results and identify key trends
Develop recommendations
Create compelling and focused reports

Step 5: Make decisions & act

Present results and the Case for Action
Make decisions and plan action
Communicate results and plans to key stakeholders

Look for the best survey software

Using the right survey software will make it easy to plan survey projects, design surveys, deploy surveys, analyse survey results and create reports. Get survey resources and learn more about surveys here.

See our Ultimate Survey Guide