Survey vs. Questionnaire: What's the Difference?
By Janet White || Published on November 29, 2023
A survey is a research method for collecting data from respondents, while a questionnaire is a set of questions used for gathering information.
Key Differences
A survey is a comprehensive method for collecting data, often involving various tools and techniques. It encompasses the entire process of data collection. A questionnaire, however, is specifically a tool used within a survey, consisting of a series of questions designed to gather information from respondents.
Surveys are used to gather qualitative and quantitative information, and they can be conducted in various formats like interviews, online platforms, or phone calls. Questionnaires are limited to the format of written or digital questions and are focused solely on the content of the questions, not the method of delivery.
The purpose of a survey is often broad, aiming to explore opinions, behaviors, or demographic information on a wide range of topics. A questionnaire is more focused, aiming to collect specific information or responses to particular questions.
Surveys include not just the collection of data but also the analysis and interpretation of the collected data. Questionnaires do not include the analysis of responses; they are only a medium for collecting data.
In a survey, the interaction with respondents might be more engaging, often requiring trained personnel to conduct or administer. Questionnaires are generally self-administered, requiring less direct interaction between the researcher and the respondent.
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Comparison Chart
Definition
A method of data collection involving various tools.
A set of written questions for gathering information.
Scope
Encompasses entire data collection process.
Limited to the tool (set of questions) within a survey.
Format
Can be conducted in multiple formats.
Typically in written or digital format.
Purpose
Broad, to explore a wide range of topics.
Specific, focused on certain questions or topics.
Analysis
Includes data analysis and interpretation.
Solely for data collection, no analysis included.
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Survey and Questionnaire Definitions
Survey
A survey is a systematic method of gathering, analyzing, and interpreting information.
The city's survey on public transport usage revealed a need for more buses.
Questionnaire
A questionnaire is a series of questions designed for gathering information from respondents.
The research study used a detailed questionnaire to collect data on eating habits.
Survey
A survey is used to assess opinions, behaviors, or characteristics of a population.
The government's national health survey provided insights into the population's lifestyle habits.
Questionnaire
A questionnaire is a written instrument used in surveys to collect data from individuals.
The feedback questionnaire at the event captured attendees' satisfaction levels.
Survey
A survey involves collecting data through questionnaires, interviews, or observations.
Researchers conducted a health survey in the community using face-to-face interviews.
Questionnaire
A questionnaire is a structured form for acquiring responses on particular topics.
Participants filled out a questionnaire about their exercise routines for the fitness study.
Survey
A survey is a research tool used for collecting data from a specific group of people.
The company conducted a customer satisfaction survey to understand client feedback.
Questionnaire
A questionnaire is a tool for quantitative or qualitative analysis through specific questions.
The market research questionnaire helped the company understand consumer preferences.
Survey
A survey can be descriptive, exploratory, or explanatory in its research approach.
An exploratory survey was conducted to gauge public interest in renewable energy.
Questionnaire
A questionnaire can be open-ended, close-ended, or a mix, depending on the information needed.
The employee questionnaire included both multiple-choice and open-ended questions.
Survey
To look over the parts, features, or contents of; view broadly
Surveyed the neighborhood from a rooftop.
Surveyed the shelves in the pantry.
Questionnaire
A form containing a set of questions, especially one addressed to a statistically significant number of subjects as a way of gathering information for a survey.
Survey
To look at or examine carefully and appraise
Surveyed the storm damage. ].
Questionnaire
A form containing a list of questions; a means of gathering information for a survey
Carry out a questionnaire
Fill out a questionnaire
Survey
The act of surveying; a general view.
Questionnaire
To survey using questionnaires
Questionnaire
Same as Questionary.
Questionnaire
A list of questions, usually on a printed form, to be answered by an individual. The forms often have blank spaces in which the answers can be written. Sets of such forms are distributed to groups and the answers used for various purposes, such as to obtain statistical information for social science, political, or marketing research, or to obtain information about a patient for the use of medical practitioners.
Questionnaire
A form containing a set of questions; submitted to people to gain statistical information
FAQs
Can a survey include multiple questionnaires?
Yes, a survey can include multiple questionnaires to gather diverse data.
Is a questionnaire always part of a survey?
Often, but a questionnaire can also be used independently of a survey.
What types of questions are in a survey?
Surveys can include a mix of open-ended and close-ended questions.
Do surveys always require direct interaction?
Not always; some surveys, like online surveys, can be self-administered.
What is a questionnaire?
A questionnaire is a set of written questions used for data collection.
Are questionnaires effective for quantitative data?
Yes, especially with structured, close-ended questions.
What is a survey?
A survey is a method of collecting and analyzing data from a group of people.
Are questionnaires only used in academic research?
No, questionnaires are used in various fields, including business and healthcare.
Can surveys be biased?
Yes, survey design and question wording can introduce bias.
Can questionnaires be anonymous?
Yes, questionnaires can be designed to ensure respondent anonymity.
How often should questionnaires be updated?
Regular updates are important to ensure relevance and accuracy.
How long should a survey be?
Surveys vary in length depending on the research objectives.
Can surveys influence policy decisions?
Yes, surveys can provide valuable data for informing policy decisions.
Should questionnaires be easy to understand?
Yes, clarity and simplicity are key for effective questionnaires.
Can a questionnaire be verbal?
Usually, questionnaires are written, but they can also be conducted verbally.
Do surveys require ethical approval?
In many cases, especially involving sensitive topics, ethical approval is needed.
Is feedback collection a form of questionnaire?
Yes, feedback forms are a type of questionnaire for gathering specific responses.
Can a questionnaire contain demographic questions?
Yes, questionnaires often include demographic questions for contextual data.
Who analyzes survey data?
Typically, researchers or analysts interpret survey data.
Are surveys only for large populations?
Surveys can be conducted for both large and small populations.
About Author
Written by
Janet WhiteJanet White has been an esteemed writer and blogger for Difference Wiki. Holding a Master's degree in Science and Medical Journalism from the prestigious Boston University, she has consistently demonstrated her expertise and passion for her field. When she's not immersed in her work, Janet relishes her time exercising, delving into a good book, and cherishing moments with friends and family.
