Email Questionnaires

When to use Email Questionnaires

Use email questionnaires when you need to reach a large audience quickly and cost-effectively, and when respondents can complete the survey at their own pace.

What it solves

Difficulty reaching a large audience with limited budget; Need for a flexible data collection method that allows respondents to answer at their convenience.

How to run Email Questionnaires, step by step

1. Create the questionnaire using a survey platform (e.g., SurveyMonkey, Google Forms) (15 min).
2. Compile an email list of the target audience (5 min).
3. Draft a clear and concise email invitation with a link to the questionnaire (10 min).
4. Send the email to the target audience (2 min).
5. Monitor response rates and send reminders as needed (variable).

Materials needed

• Email list
• Survey platform (e.g., SurveyMonkey, Google Forms)
• Email marketing software (optional)

Facilitator tips

• Personalize the email invitation to increase response rates.
• Keep the questionnaire short and focused.
• Ensure the survey is mobile-friendly.

Common pitfalls

• Low response rates due to email fatigue or spam filters. To avoid this, personalize emails, use a clear subject line, and send reminders.
• Technical issues with the survey platform. Test the survey thoroughly before sending it out.

Variations

• Embed the first question in the email to encourage immediate participation.
• Offer an incentive for completing the survey.

Running it online or hybrid

Ensure the email is mobile-friendly and the survey link is easily accessible on various devices.

What it produces

A digital dataset of responses collected through the email questionnaire.

Origin

Adapted from BetterEvaluation.org — source

Build a session around Email Questionnaires

METODIC places Email Questionnaires inside a complete, timed session plan — agenda, worksheets, facilitator guide and slides — matched to your group and goal.

Generate a session with Email Questionnaires · Try METODIC free