Design a Short Community Resource Survey
Plan a brief survey that helps identify access barriers while avoiding unnecessary personal data.
Define the decision first
A useful survey begins with a decision it can inform. Instead of asking broadly whether a neighborhood has enough services, choose a narrower purpose: for example, identify which kinds of information make it difficult to find a nearby food program. This focus helps keep the survey short and makes the answers easier to summarize. State who the survey is meant to hear from, where it will be offered, and how the results will be used. Do not promise that responses will change a service unless that is within your control.
Ask one thing at a time
Use plain language and avoid questions that combine several ideas. “What makes it hard to reach a service?” is more useful than a question that simultaneously asks about distance, cost, hours, and staff treatment. Offer answer choices that cover plausible experiences, plus “not sure” and “another reason” when appropriate. A practical example might list travel time, schedule, language, eligibility information, and transportation cost separately. Include a brief open response only when a person’s own explanation would add value that fixed choices cannot capture.
Collect less personal information
Before adding a question about age, address, income, immigration status, disability, or household circumstances, ask whether the answer is necessary for the stated purpose. A neighborhood-level survey can often ask about a general area or travel barrier without collecting a name or exact address. Explain whether responses are anonymous, who can see them, and how long they will be kept. Avoid implying anonymity if handwriting, contact details, or a unique combination of answers could identify someone. Give people a clear option to skip a question.
Test and close the loop
Try the draft with a few people who resemble the intended audience, and ask them to explain what they think each question means. If a response choice is confusing or a survey takes longer than expected, revise it before wider use. When collecting responses, use the same wording and method each time so results are comparable. Summarize patterns without presenting a small group’s comments as representative of everyone. Share a brief explanation of what was learned, what remains unknown, and what practical next step follows.
Spotted something we should look at? Suggest a correction.