Use when
- You need broad input from many users and the question set is already clear.
- You want to quantify prevalence, preferences, or patterns after earlier qualitative work.
Do not use when
- You still do not understand the problem space or user language well enough to write good questions.
- You need observed behavior rather than self-report.
Best for
- Validating patterns at scale
- Segment comparison
- Prioritization signals
How to design it
- Use neutral wording and avoid double-barreled questions.
- Keep scales balanced and answer choices mutually clear.
- Pilot the survey before sending widely.
Suggested sample size
Use enough responses to support the decision, and be explicit about sampling limits.
Survey Planning TemplateUse this when you need a practical reading template.
View template
- What decision should the survey support?
- Which audience should receive it?
- What assumptions are being tested?
- How will results be interpreted and acted on?
Typical output
- Survey dataset and summary
- Segment comparison view
- Evidence for or against a hypothesis
Useful resources
Nielsen Norman GroupShould You Run a Survey?
Helps decide whether a survey is appropriate or likely to produce weak evidence.
Nielsen Norman GroupWriting Good Survey Questions: 10 Best PracticesDirectly supports writing unbiased, usable survey questions.
Nielsen Norman GroupHow to Run Surveys at Every Stage of the Design CycleShows where surveys fit across discovery, evaluation, and live-product learning.