1. Build the form for easy-to-read results
The key is to ask questions with clear answer options that create results that are easy to analyze and visualize.
An example of such a clear question might be:
What services do you use from us?
1) Gym
2) Massage
3) Personal training
If you include too many open-ended questions that require the respondent to write the answer in free text (for example: What do you like about our gym?), the analysis will take time, while it will take longer to answer the survey.
Questions with response options make the survey easier to understand for the respondent and easier to evaluate for you as the sender. Use the “Other” answer option where necessary. Also, add a text field where the respondent can enter his/her answer in free text.
2. Minimize the number of compulsory questions
Too many compulsory questions make it more time-consuming to answer the survey as a whole and often result in a reduced response rate. Make sure that only the most important parts of the questionnaire are mandatory.
3. A logical flow
Grouping questions that are related to each other, preferably with an introductory subheading, can also make longer surveys feel more compartmentalized and therefore not as comprehensive to go through.
4. Try the survey on a few selected test persons
Once you feel comfortable with the form, it is a good idea to have it tested by a few colleagues or friends. Ask them to keep track of how long it takes them to answer the questionnaire and how they feel about the flow of the questions etc.
This way you can evaluate the design of the form. At the same time, you will get responses that will help you evaluate whether the questions provide good measurable material to work with after the survey is completed.
5. Print estimated time spent on the survey
Printing an estimated time for completing the form in the invitation and/or at the top gives respondents a good chance to plan their time. Also, take the opportunity to inform them about what the answers will be used for. Phrase the invitation directly to the respondent rather than writing the invitation to the group of recipients as a whole.
6. Send the survey to the right people
Make sure that the survey is sent to the recipients who are really interested in the issues covered by the survey. It is not necessary to send the invitation to all your contacts as the response rate is unlikely to increase with the number of respondents invited.
The best quality responses will come from genuinely interested respondents and it is primarily from them that you want feedback.