Telesurveys

Telesurveys, also known as telephone surveys, are a method of collecting data by interviewing respondents over the phone. This technique involves trained interviewers asking a pre-determined set of questions to a sample of individuals. The responses are typically recorded by the interviewer directly into a computer system, allowing for real-time data entry and analysis. Telesurveys are often employed for market research, public opinion polling, and academic studies due to their ability to reach a broad geographic area relatively quickly and cost-effectively compared to in-person surveys. However, response rates can be a challenge, and the impersonal nature of the medium may sometimes limit the depth of responses compared to other methods. The sampling frame for telesurveys can include both landline and mobile phone numbers, though increasingly, mobile-only households are becoming a significant consideration. Quality control is crucial, with supervisors often monitoring calls and interviewers undergoing rigorous training to ensure consistency and accuracy in data collection. While technology has introduced newer survey methods, telesurveys remain a relevant tool in the data collection landscape.