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Our Services

Our Services

The SRC provides full consulting services for all aspects of survey operation. Many of these are offered independently, or may be provided by the SRC in conducting the entire research survey. These services include:

Design and selection of a probability sample

The SRC can provide clients with estimates of the scale and cost of surveys assuming various sample sizes and with different modes of data collection. Given the study's precision requirements, sample sizes can be computed to provide statistically reliable estimates. The SRC can offer advice on advantages and disadvantages of using various sample designs, such as the use of stratification, for a study.

Questionnaire development

With more than 30 years experience in questionnaire development, the staff of the SRC works closely with clients to generate a questionnaire that meets project objectives while minimizing bias and measurement error.

Data collection

The SRC uses both mail and the Internet to conduct surveys. The SRC has conducted research comparing Web and mail surveys since 2002. This research along with participation at national survey meetings provides SRC staff information to recommend the best survey mode for survey data collection. The SRC can provide input on the advantages and disadvantages of survey delivery mode for different populations.

Data editing, coding, and entry

A data entry program used specifically for survey data is utilized which provides efficient and accurate data entry and verification. Editing checks are done on all data files to minimize coding errors. Statistical weights are applied when necessary in the analysis to account for the survey design features. Strict confidentiality is maintained for all respondents.

Data analysis and summary reports

Statistical analyses are selected which are appropriate for the sampling design and objectives of the survey. Analytical adjustments for non-response bias are also evaluated. A summary report detailing the survey procedures and results is provided for each survey.

Comprehensive Services

After initial consultation in regard to the survey objectives and population characteristics, we

  • Discuss advantages and disadvantages of using various data collection modes
  • Select the sample based on the characteristics of the population
  • Prepare recruitment materials for the sample frame
  • Design, develop and format the survey instrument
  • Administer the survey
  • Provide data entry (if applicable)
  • Apply coding techniques
  • Verify survey response data
  • Analyze data based on study objectives

A final report is prepared summarizing the project. In addition to the beforementioned details, study methodology, a standardized survey research method response rate, and frequency results and interpretation are provided.

Types of surveys

Mail surveys

The Survey Research Center can coordinate all components of mail surveys. This includes survey administration for multiple mailings. Mailing procedures are used to minimize both non-response and measurement errors.

Internet surveys

The SRC has experience in conducting web-based surveys using secure online forms which store responses in a secure database for easy retrieval and analysis by many programs. The SRC can also provide advice on the construction of Internet surveys as well as implementation and data collection.

Example projects

Fuel Estimates

Since the 1990’s, SRC has conducted surveys related to fuel consumption for various state agencies. Analyses of fuel consumption data for vehicles used off-road such as motorboats, ATV’s, aircraft, and snowmobiles are provided on a recurring basis to the managing agency. Using the survey data collected, SRC computes statewide estimates of annual fuel usage for these motorized vehicles.

Program Evaluation/Customer Service

SRC routinely conducts program evaluation surveys for various OSU Colleges, Departments, and other units to provide critical feedback for program improvement and collect post-graduate outcomes. Other Oregon agencies such as Oregon Department of Revenue and Oregon DMV have used SRC to conduct surveys for their customer service evaluations. Based on Oregon Department of Administrative Services service performance guidelines, SRC conducts a mail and mixed-mode (mail and web) survey on a quarterly basis for Oregon DMV and provides frequency analyses to the agency. Statewide DMV office managers use these results to measure performance of customer services.

Diversity

SRC has developed questionnaires and collected data for a number of clients to evaluate various diversity topics including general climate, interactions with staff and administration, and overall diversity of the organization. A survey is conducted for the Oregon State University Graduate School on an ongoing basis and includes several questions regarding inclusivity within the OSU environment.

Needs Assessment

Several Oregon public agencies contract with SRC to provide large-scale assessment of various aspects of the public infrastructure important to Oregon residents and collects resident views on the quality of infrastructure maintenance and transportation needs across the state.

Recreational/Environmental

Other Oregon agencies have relied on SRC to collect data regarding various types of recreational and environmental topics. Subjects include boating, fishing, and hunting.