Traditional Data Collection (Focus Groups, Face-to-Face and Telephone Interviews)

Despite changes in technology, there is still a place for traditional methods of research such as face-to-face interviews and telephone interviews. There are nuances in non-verbal behavior that can only be observed when one is sitting face-to-face with a research respondent. Often times there are no barriers to using this method, and when that is the case, we frequently recommend it. Telephone usage patterns are changing with more and more people choosing cell phones over land lines. Despite these changes, a telephone survey is still the most cost effective method of collecting data. We examine the population from which clients are trying to collect information and tailor the data collection method to that population and to the kind of information they are trying to gather. Frequently when survey options are considered (including the limitations and advantages of each option) telephone surveys are still the best methods.