Questionnaire design

Standardized, scientifically tested and validated survey instruments are an essential prerequisite for the quality of the data collected in a survey. Developing a questionnaire that respondents can clearly understand and accurately answer requires expertise in survey methodology. Our GESIS experts evaluate your items, scales, and questions for their suitability for your project. If you are planning an international or multilingual survey, we offer advice on appropriate harmonization and translation methods. Benefit from our extensive experience for your project!

Surveys are conducted in various modes, which should be considered when designing questionnaires. We offer guidance on designing and adapting questionnaires for different survey modes, such as face-to-face interviews, telephone surveys, as well as paper or online surveys.

Sociodemographic characteristics are collected in virtually every social science survey, as they position individuals within the social structure, which in turn influences attitudes and behavior in various ways. We advise on the standardized collection of sociodemographic data, its coding, and its harmonization across studies or samples, for instance, in internationally comparative studies.