Questionnaires are a common and inexpensive research tool used by private companies, government departments, individuals, groups, NGOs etc to get feedback, research, collect data from consumer, customers. or from general public depending on the need. Questionnaire plays an important role in surveys and in other purposes for which it is being made and there are many points which needs to be kept in mind so as to get the desired results. These are one of the most important part of primary surveys and the data collected us generally meant for the end-user/company for which survey is being conducted. However when the data collection is large an independent firm or a department can be given the task of getting the questionnaire filled. It is not possible to conduct a primary survey without a questionnaire.
Following are the characteristics of a good questionnaire:
(i) Questions must be worded simply and clearly, not ambiguous or vague. It must be objective.
(ii) Attractive in appearance (questions spaced out and neatly arranged).
(iii) Write a descriptive title for the questionnaire.
(iv) Write an introduction to the questionnaire
(v) Order questions in a logical sequence.
(vi) Keep questionnaire uncluttered and easy to complete.
(vii) Design for easy tabulation.
(viii) Design to achieve objectives.
(ix) Define each and every term.
(x) Avoid double negatives (I have no money).
(xi) Avoid double barreled questions (this AND that).
(xii) Frame questions for all respondents.
