Usability Evaluation
Creating and Conducting an Online Questionnaire
Online questionnaires refers to a survey technique that is internet based used to acquire information from interviewees on web platforms (James & Busher, 2009). These questionnaires are programmed in websites to give a user interface that has audio, pictures and video clips. The aim of the website id that of directing users into answering the questionnaire on the basis of personal knowledge and the information obtained. This form of online interviewing technique is assumed to be cheaper for purposes of obtaining information since people are not needed so they can take surveys. Increased internet use has contributed to the popularity of questionnaires as the most ideal way to collect information. On that same note, designing of online questionnaire also greatly influences the quality of data that is collected (Chiou, Lin & Perng, 2010). As such, it is of great importance to review the following difficult and easy aspects of conducting and creating of an online questionnaire. While creating an online questionnaire, the developer is supposed to focus on factors such as question format, guidelines, quality and administration. The questions often appear simple but the truth is they need critical analysis in order to attain the aim of the interview.
Online questionnaires are supposed to be directed at inducing clients into giving all information they have through directive summaries. As such, online survey tools are supposed to be created in a manner that matches the needs of each client. Carrying out an online interview is never an easy process because of the sensitivity of information provided by the clients. While this is the case, majority of customers look at online questionnaires as a safer technique as such, they improve the frequency of responses, ideas and opinions (James & Busher, 2009). This is due to respondents who give responses while they are within the comfort of their workplace or home. The anonymity level offered by the internet as well makes it possible for people to communicate with great ease. In order to guarantee that the online questionnaires will bear the promised efficiency, the creation of online questionnaires needs to be carried after following various steps. Goal definition is the most difficult step as it forms basis for the development of the program. Before carrying out the survey, tools are supposed to be assembled first in order to provide a platform that is effective for questioning (Sue & Ritter, 2011). This is then followed by questions which are uploaded on the system and the procedure is quite easy so long as the appropriate guidelines are followed. The survey is supposed to be tested before it is put forth to the clients so they can fill out information. This will include testing respondent’s flexibility to modify their answers once they will or some in the online questionnaires. These online questionnaires are supposed to be set to work in which case, the results are measured so as to provide feedback on functionality.
Reliability of the data collected
Date reliability is a denotation of information that is obtained through online questionnaires. The important aspect regarding online survey is that the admin has great control over questions on display as well as information posted. The administrator also has the power to limit responses by displaying survey questions in check boxes, pull down menus as well as home screen with the aim of improving the value (Sue & Ritter, 2011). As a matter of fact, the information obtained from these online questionnaires is quickly received than is the case in other types of surveys as such, making the process far apt in decision making. Additionally, the process is also cheaper to administer since no costs are lined with purchase of scripts for postage. This promises additional data for analysis and improves the major aim of enhancing customer service via quality provision (James & Busher, 2009). What is more, the availability of a central database is what makes sure time spent on the analysis of data is reduced greatly. Besides, it is far easier to make adjustments of mistakes on an online questionnaire since there are no reprints needed for dispersion. Therefore, efficiency is data collection assured to make the information reliable and of great value.
Validity
Validity of data collected over an online survey mostly relies on consistency. Reliable questionnaires guarantee validity of data. In such a case, the test for data validity collected is easier compared to reliability as it depends on effectiveness of survey conducted. Validity also denotes value that is offered by the survey in regard to intended purpose. Validity of online questionnaires evaluates process applied in collection of data among with functionality of tools used. An effective online instrument also improves reliability of survey hence validating the data collected (Sue & Ritter, 2011). In order to improve on the validity, data collected should correspond with the decisions at hand. This signifies resource allocation in the development of the program, evaluation and operation should be assessed relative to the value in consideration. Another factor that needs to be appraised is data validity and magnitude of information collected. Data should be gathered from all people with the ability of participating whether they are accessible or not. This ensures data that is important is not excluded from survey analysis. The questionnaire in use is also relevant in assessing validity of online survey data (Chiou, Lin & Perng, 2010). For example, standard questionnaires might have high reliability but they might be deemed of poor validity. This is due to overuse of the questionnaire which leaves the respondents lacking new things to evaluate. Lastly sensitive information must be safeguarded in order to guarantee high level of confidentiality.
Usability of Online Questionnaire Website
Normally, websites operate in settings that are remote where interviewer does not have any form of direct contact with respondents. The purposes of proving usability of online questionnaire is evaluating the cost benefit that is offered by an organization. The remote usability test includes location and time differential between the evaluators and respondents. The system, which is interactive ought to be cost effective, efficient and fast in the manner through which it absorbs information (Sue & Ritter, 2011). This is supposed to be enhanced as the evaluator and the respondent are in varying locations. In such instances, the interviewer must test efficiency of the system in collection of data allowing new people to take part in a flash. This ensures it is easier to access more people especially those in remote areas by building mutual understanding through online questionnaire tool. This improves communication among the respondents and evaluators.
Website usability is dependent on a couple of factors which include personal experience and ease of using the services offered. Online questionnaire website should be operated with ease to promise usability (Chio, Lin & Perng, 2010). The website should be easily accessible, offer pleasing animations and easy to navigate. This makes users build trust and value the information needed from them hence making them comfortable to participate in the survey. Website credibility enhances the confidence of an individual. This can only be achieved by an organization that fulfills its promises (James & Sucher, 2009). When there is improved customer loyalty, there is also an increase in the number of visits which makes data gathering pertinent. Usability of an online questionnaire varies with its level of attraction, presentation and the level of quality assurance. However, it is worth noting that not everyone can access the internet and this can lower the rate of response. What is more, there is a high number of people still not receptive to filling out online surveys. Note that majority of people who fill out online questionnaires are young people.
References
Chiou, W. C., Lin, C. C., & Perng, C. (2010). “A strategic framework for website evaluation based on a review of the literature from 1995–2006”. Information & management, 47(5), 282-290.
James, N., & Busher, H. (2009). Online interviewing. New York: Sage.
Sue, V. M., & Ritter, L. A. (2011). Conducting online surveys. New York: Sage.