The Power of Surveys: Insider Tips and Tools for Taking the Pulse of Your Community

Surveys are everywhere. Local governments and nonprofits need to gather accurate, timely feedback and public opinions. With so many choices and so much at stake, what approach is best? Do all survey techniques fit all circumstances? Are the results of informal polling, surveys or drop-off cards reliable or legitimate inputs for decision-making? In this workshop, you’ll learn how to capture public input for key policy decisions and questions. We’ll address community surveying, including vital insights into the methods, techniques and credibility of scientifically designed survey methods compared to do-it-yourself survey methods. NIU’s Survey Research team undertakes about 30 surveys a year for client groups ranging from federal and state government agencies to local governments. This workshop will introduce participants to the concepts and tools essential to capturing accurate feedback.