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Survey methodology

NatCen is committed to using the best, most up-to-date and cost-effective methods for collecting survey data. Over the last 40 years NatCen has built a national and international reputation for being at the cutting edge of survey methodology in the UK.

About our survey methodology

Our interest in survey methodology is a very practical one - we are always looking for ways to improve the quality of the survey data we collect.

We keep up to date with the latest developments in this field. Furthermore, we conduct our own methodological research to help us understand, minimise and adjust for survey error. We frequently conduct experiments to find the best methods for increasing response rates, reducing non-response bias and avoiding measurement error. We have a reputation for delivering high quality sampling and weighting solutions.

A key part of NatCen's mission is to share our methodological expertise with the wider research community. We do this through our publications, training and presentations at key conferences and seminars.

How we can help you

NatCen's expert methodologists, statisticians and survey practitioners can advise on best practice, making use of our own research into new and improved methods. We are well connected to the international community of survey methodologists and have a successful track record of collaborating with academic experts in this field.

We can advise on and develop the optimal sampling and weighting strategies for complex surveys, including those for hard-to-reach populations - we have extensive experience of designing and carrying out the sampling and weighting for all quantitative surveys at NatCen.

At NatCen, we have conducted many experiments over the years that test different methods for increasing response rates including respondent incentives, frequency and methods for contacting respondents, mode of data collection, and fieldwork management. We can apply our knowledge to any specific survey and recommend the best methods for maximising response rates and reducing the risk of non-response bias.

Survey data can be collected using a variety of modes, such as face-to-face interviewing, telephone interviewing, postal questionnaires, and web questionnaires. Each of these modes has its strengths and weaknesses. We can provide advice on the choice of mode(s) that will optimise quality, cost and speed of data collection for a specific survey.

 Your contacts

• Gerry Nicolaas
• Kevin Pickering
• Debbie Collins

You can:

Of interest: