DDC Research, Decision Data Collection, Inc. Fredericksburg, Va.

Mail surveys present a cost effective methodology for gathering a large amount of data with a limited budget. Traditionally, the main concern regarding the mail survey approach has been the possibility of obtaining low response rates. If a mail survey return rate is low, those who elected to return the questionnaires may not be representative of the total population studied, and thus a research bias may be encountered.

For many decades, much research has been conducted on the mail questionnaire survey approach itself. Many techniques have been found to influence and help increase survey response rates. The Total Design Method by Donald Dillman is an excellent guide to obtaining maximum responses in a mail survey.

Whether or not a mail questionnaire or other approach is used or not in a study depends upon many factors. DDC researchers are experts in analyzing these factors and working with clients to make the most appropriate selection of research methodology for each individual project. DDC Research provides a full range of Mail Questionnaire research services, including:

Questionnaire design
Cover letter development
Follow-up reminders
Sample design
Sample selection
Preparation of outgoing survey packages
Respondent/non-respondent tracking
Follow-up Mailings
Editing of completed questionnaires
Coding system development
Coding of open-ended questions
Computer file structure development
Data entry and verification
Machine database cleaning
Data analysis (frequencies, cross tabs, banner tables, significance testing, weighting, complex analyses)
Report writing
Presentation of results

DDC Research has successfully conducted mail questionnaire surveys for a wide variety of clients since 1983. DDC has conducted mail surveys for associations (e.g., State Department Federal Credit Union; International Arabian Horse Association), local governments (e.g., Arlington County; Kingstowne Residential Owners Corporation), local Washington DC entities (e.g., District of Columbia Bar; Congressional Country Club); and private consultants (e.g., University Professors; advertising/communications consultants).