Data Collection Methods Essay

The following data collection methods are not likely to achieve the overriding objective. For each one, indicate why not:
a. Drop-off survey
b. Group-administered survey
c. Mall-intercept survey

A drop of the survey is not likely to achieve the overriding objective since the respondents will be given time to fill the questionnaires in their free time. This will lead to certain incidences where some of the respondents will not totally fill the questionnaires making the researcher not to achieve the targeted goal. On the other hand, group administered survey which involves sampling of a certain class of respondents will not bring the required outcome since there might not be any form of balance within the group e.g. gender balance. Lastly, mall intercept survey where various respondents are intercepted in different public places is likely not to achieve the overriding objective since the respondents are subjected under various questions without their knowledge and preparation thus some might end up giving the wrong information just to pass time.

Compare the use of an in-home method to the use of an online method for Global Motors survey. What are the relevant pros and cons of each one? Indicate which one you would recommend and why.

The use of an in-home method to carry out the survey is one of the best approaches that can be incorporated into Global motors. One of its main advantages is that it will allow the researcher to have a face to face conversation with the respondent thereby being able to know more about his or her perception. The second advantage is that there are minimal chances of dishonesty when this method of survey is implemented. Moreover, it is also associated with certain forms of disadvantages, one of the main disadvantages is that the researcher might fail to know the exact time on when to get the respondent.

The use of an online method of survey is also associated with several advantages and disadvantages. One of its main advantages is that it is faster means of communication. Secondly, it is not tiresome compared to other forms of survey. Its disadvantage is that it can be easily manipulated under certain conditions and also the respondents might take longer than expected to give their responses. As far as these two methods are concerned, I would recommend the use of the in-home method to carry out the survey since the respondents will always be able to respond in real time.