How to Analyze Survey vs. Questionnaire Reports?

Some might think, “Isn’t a survey just a fancier word for a questionnaire?”

You might also be wondering. Was it the survey, in the boardroom, with the multiple-choice questions? Or was it the questionnaire, in the break room, with the open-ended prompts?

You have come to the right place. Here, we will exhaust the differences between survey vs. questionnaire to help you distinguish them.

The truth is both methods have their strengths and weaknesses. However, the real winner is not in the collection of data. The winner lies in the analysis and interpretation of that data.

But fear not. You don’t need a degree in statistics to make sense of the numbers.

We have a solution – ChartExpo for Excel.

ChartExpo has the ability to transform confusing data into a work of art. Therefore, it can help you solve the mystery of your data and turn it into a valuable asset.

Before collecting data, ensure you understand the differences between survey vs. questionnaire reports. Then choose the one that best suits your needs.

After all, the game is only fun when you know the rules.

In this blog, you’ll learn the following:

• What Is a Questionnaire
• What Is a Survey?
• What Are the Importance of Surveys and Questionnaires in Research and Data Collection?
• What Are the Key Differences between Surveys and Questionnaires?
• What Are the Purpose of Surveys and Questionnaires?
• What Are the Key Features of a Survey Design?
• What Are the Key Features of a Questionnaire Design?
• How to Analyze Survey and Questionnaire Reports?

What Is a Questionnaire

A questionnaire is a structured set of questions for gathering information from individuals or groups. It is a common method in social sciences, market research, and other fields. Questionnaires aim to collect specific data to analyze and draw conclusions. You can administer questionnaires in various formats, such as paper-based forms, online surveys, or interviews.

What Is a Survey?

A survey is a systematic method of gathering data or opinions from a population or sample. It involves using a questionnaire or a set of questions administered to respondents to collect the data. You can conduct surveys through online platforms, telephone interviews, paper-based forms, or face-to-face interactions. Then analyze the data to derive insights, trends, or patterns related to the survey topic or research objectives.

What Are the Importance of Surveys and Questionnaires in Research and Data Collection?

Surveys and questionnaires play a crucial role in research and data collection for several reasons:

1. Standardized data collection: By using standardized survey instruments, you can ensure consistency in data collection across different participants or groups. Consequently, enhance the reliability and validity of the findings.
2. Large-scale data collection: Surveys and questionnaires enable you to collect data from a large number of respondents. They provide a broader perspective and enhance the generalizability of the results.
3. Cost-effectiveness: Surveys and questionnaires are often more cost-effective compared to other data collection methods like interviews or focus groups.
4. Anonymity and confidentiality: Respondents can maintain anonymity while providing honest and sensitive information, leading to more accurate data collection.
5. Efficiency and convenience: You can administer surveys and questionnaires remotely, allowing participants to respond at their convenience. This reduces logistical constraints and increases the response rates.

What Are the Key Differences between Surveys and Questionnaires?

While surveys and questionnaires are related methods of data collection, there have some key differences:

1. Administration method: You can administer surveys through various methods, including online platforms, telephone interviews, face-to-face interactions, or mail. Questionnaires typically refer to written or online sets of questions that individuals respond to independently.
2. Format and structure: Surveys are typically more comprehensive and can include multiple sections or modules. Questionnaires are usually more focused and consist of structured questions that respondents answer directly.
3. Flexibility: Surveys can incorporate various data collection techniques beyond questionnaires, such as observations or experiments. Questionnaires, on the other hand, are limited to a set of structured questions.
4. Interactivity: Surveys often involve interaction between the researcher and the respondent, such as in interviews or focus groups. Contrarily, questionnaires are usually designed for one-way communication, with respondents providing written or selected responses.
5. Data collection scope: Surveys gather a broader range of data, including demographic information, opinions, attitudes, behaviors, and more. Questionnaires typically focus more on specific topics or variables of interest, collecting targeted information within a narrower scope.

What Are the Purpose of Surveys and Questionnaires?

The purpose of surveys and questionnaires is to gather data and information for various purposes, including:

1. Research: Surveys and questionnaires are widely used to collect data on specific research questions or hypotheses. They help researchers gather quantitative or qualitative data to analyze and draw conclusions. Consequently, contribute to knowledge in a particular field.
2. Data collection: Surveys and questionnaires serve as tools to collect data on specific variables or factors of interest. They provide a structured approach for gathering information from a large number of participants.
3. Needs assessment: Surveys and questionnaires help assess individuals’ or groups’ needs, preferences, or opinions. They help identify gaps, issues, or areas for improvement. As a result, guiding decision-making processes in organizations, communities, or service providers.
4. Market research: Surveys and questionnaires play a crucial role in market research to gather consumer data. This information helps you understand your target market, make informed marketing decisions, and improve your offerings.
5. Feedback and evaluation: Surveys and questionnaires allow you to gather feedback from customers, clients, employees, or stakeholders. They provide insights into satisfaction levels, perceptions, experiences, or suggestions for improvement. This aids in the evaluation of programs, services, or policies.
6. Planning and decision-making: Surveys and questionnaires assist in gathering data for planning purposes. Such instances include determining the demand for a new product, identifying target audiences, or understanding community needs. The collected data inform decision-making processes and strategic initiatives.

What Are the Key Features of a Survey Design?

The key features of a survey design include:

1. Measurable survey objectives: Clearly defined and measurable objectives help guide the survey design process. The objectives outline the purpose of the survey and what information needs to be collected.
2. Effective survey question design: The survey questions should be clear, concise, and unbiased. They should be designed to gather the necessary information to address the survey objectives.
3. Effective survey response strategy: The survey design should consider strategies to encourage high response rates and minimize non-response bias. This may involve using appropriate modes of survey administration, providing clear instructions, and ensuring respondent confidentiality.
4. Meaningful data summary: Once the survey data is collected, you need to summarize it in a meaningful and organized manner. This may involve cleaning, coding, and conducting data checks for accuracy and consistency.
5. Effective data display and reporting: You should communicate the survey findings through various data visualization techniques. The report or presentation should be clear and concise, highlighting the key insights and conclusions drawn.

What Are the Key Features of a Questionnaire Design?

The key features of a questionnaire design include the following:

1. The sequence of questions: The questionnaire should have a logical flow and a well-thought-out sequence of questions. It is important to consider the respondent’s perspective. Then organize the questions in an easy-to-follow and understandable way.
2. Uniformity: The questionnaire should maintain consistency in formatting, question style, and response options. This helps in reducing confusion and ensuring that respondents invariably interpret the questions.
3. Exploratory: The design should include questions that explore various aspects of the research topic. It should cover all relevant dimensions or variables, providing a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter.
4. Easy to understand: Clarity and simplicity are essential in questionnaire design. Phrase the questions clearly and concisely, avoiding jargon or technical terms that may confuse respondents. Additionally, the response options should be easily understandable and mutually exclusive.

How to Analyze Survey and Questionnaire Reports?

So much data, so little time. But with the right tools and techniques, you can turn that mountain of information into a concise report.

And what’s the secret to this magical transformation, you ask?

The answer is simple – ChartExpo and Excel. With ChartExpo, you can create insightful visualizations, making it easier than ever to identify trends and patterns.

So why settle for boring spreadsheets when you can spice up your data with ChartExpo?

Benefits of Using ChartExpo

• ChartExpo has a plethora of visualizations. You can choose the most suitable one for your data.
• With ChartExpo, you don’t need to be a coding wizard to create insightful visualizations. The tool’s intuitive user interface allows for effortless creation of visualizations.
• ChartExpo offers great value, with a free 7-day trial and a $10 monthly plan. This makes it an affordable and accessible option for businesses of all sizes.

How to Install ChartExpo in Excel?

1. Open your Excel application.
2. Open the worksheet and click the “Insert” menu.
3. You’ll see the “My Apps” option.
4. In the office Add-ins window, click “Store” and search for ChartExpo on my Apps Store.
5. Click the “Add” button to install ChartExpo in your Excel.

ChartExpo charts are available both in Google Sheets and Microsoft Excel. Please use the following CTA’s to install the tool of your choice and create beautiful visualizations in a few clicks in your favorite tool.

Example

Assume you run an ice cream shop and have created a customer feedback survey form with the following questions.

• How would you rate our ice cream flavors?
• What is your level of liking or disliking regarding the affordability of the price of ice cream?
• How likely are you to recommend our ice cream to your friends?

Your customers provide an answer to these questions using the response scale below.

• Strongly dislike
• Dislike
• Neither like nor dislike
• Like
• Strongly Like

Let’s say your survey yields the results below.

This table contains example data. Expect many responses and questions in real life.

• To get started with ChartExpo, install ChartExpo in Excel.
• Navigate to the INSERT menu and select My Apps. 

• Select ChartExpo and click the “Insert” button.

• Once it loads, choose the “Likert Scale Chart” from the charts list.

• Select the data from the sheet and click the “Create Chart From Selection” button.

• When you click the “Create Chart From Selection” button, you have to map responses with numbers manually. The Likert scale has this arrangement:

Strongly dislike=1

Dislike=2

Neither like nor dislike=3

Like=4

Strongly Like=5

Once all is set, click the “Create Chart” button.

• ChartExpo will generate the visualization below for you.

• Click the “Edit Chart” button to modify your chart.
• Click the pencil icon next to Chart Header to add a title.
• This will open the properties dialog.
• Add a heading in Line 1 under the Text section and enable the Show option. Then click the “Apply” button.

• Let’s say you want to add text responses instead of numbers against every emoji.
• Click the pencil icon next to the respective emoji. Expand the “Label” properties and write the required text. Then click the “Apply All” button.
• Click the “Save Changes” button to persist the changes.

• Your final chart will appear as below.

Insights

• 65% of customers like to recommend your ice cream to friends. 20% dislike, and 15% remain neutral.
• 55% like regarding the affordability of the price, while 30% dislike.
• 40% like ice cream flavors, 40% do not like, and 20% remain neutral.
• Overall, 53% of customers gave a positive response, 30% gave a negative response, and 17% remained neutral.

FAQs

Which is better: a survey or a questionnaire?

Surveys encompass various data collection methods. On the other hand, questionnaires specifically refer to a structured set of questions within a survey. Their selection depends on research objectives and data collection requirements.

Can a questionnaire be used as a survey?

Yes, you can use a questionnaire as a survey. A questionnaire is a specific tool within the broader framework of a survey. It is designed to collect data through a structured set of questions.

Are online surveys more effective than paper-based surveys?

Factors like the target population and research objectives determine the effectiveness of online surveys versus paper-based surveys. Online surveys offer advantages like broader reach and quicker data collection. In contrast, paper-based surveys may suit demographics or contexts with limited internet access.

Wrap Up

When analyzing survey vs. questionnaire reports, it is essential to understand their distinct roles and characteristics. Surveys encompass a broader range of data collection methods. Contrarily, questionnaires specifically refer to a set of structured questions within a survey.

Survey reports are more comprehensive and multifaceted. They incorporate diverse data collection techniques such as interviews, observations, or experiments. Additionally, they provide a more holistic view of the research topic, combining quantitative and qualitative data.

Survey reports are valuable for in-depth analysis, identifying patterns, trends, and relationships, and drawing nuanced conclusions.

On the other hand, questionnaire reports focus on the findings derived from the structured set of questions. They are primarily quantitative and facilitate straightforward data analysis.

Questionnaire reports effectively summarize key findings, present statistical results, and address specific research objectives.

The key to good data analysis is having the right tools and techniques.

With ChartExpo, you can create insightful charts and make better business decisions. The best part is that you can do all this without relying on data scientists and coders.