No clarification available during completion.
People are used to completing paper-and-pencil surveys.
Need a motivated population to return the survey.
Can take the survey with you and complete it anywhere and anytime.
Respondents must be able to read, see, and write.
Great for sensitive issues.
Telephone/ administered
Information is obtained immediately.
Possible bias from the administrator.
Can explore answers with respondents.
Higher level of resources.
email/internet
Negligible distribution costs.
Respondent must be “online”.
Only “acceptable” answers can be allowed (validation).
Respondents must be able to use a computer, a mouse, and/or keyboard.
Require the question to be answered.
Respondent must be able to use a web browser.
Can give respondent links that give additional explanation.
Reliant on technology that can fail.