Survey Design and Data Management

ERG conducts high-quality, statistically designed surveys, case studies, focus groups, expert elicitations, and other data and information-gathering efforts. Our survey team includes statisticians, economists, econometricians, information technology professionals, and social scientists. Our projects cover a wide range of topics and research areas, including environmental performance; use of medical devices; food manufacturing practices; and the use and effectiveness of federal government programs and materials. We use a variety of methods to collect data based on their ability to maximize response rates and ensure statistically valid results. Our clients frequently rely on our ability to collect low incidence rate data and information on sensitive topics from hard-to-reach populations.

Survey Design

Survey instrument development
Sample design
Cognitive pre-testing
Pilot studies
Office of Management and Budget (OMB) clearance

Data Collection

Automated sample management
Real-time monitoring with continuous data flow process
Mail surveys
Telephone surveys
Web-based surveys
Mixed-mode surveys
Hard-to-reach or “unknown” populations
Sensitive topics
Survey helpline support

Data Management

Automated questionnaire tracking system (QTS)
E-mail list manager
Double data entry
Data analysis and reporting
Customized database applications

Focus Groups

Design, protocols, scripts, and observation instruments
Meeting planning and logistics
Group recruitment
Facilitation and other onsite support
Documentation and results analysis

Expert Elicitations

Panel recruitment
Elicitation design, protocols, and scripts
Delphi method
Nominal group technique
Face-to-face meetings