Hiking/backpacking research

“Dear Forum Members -

I am working on a new product launch in one of my classes (Marketing 465 - Introduction of New Products and Services) and would like your help in gathering some feedback. The product is for the hiking/backpacking market and I would love to get your opinion and insight. I would appreciate it if you would please take a few minutes to fill out a short survey that will help with my research and please feel free to pass it on to the members of your hiking/backpacking organizations.

To access the survey please click on or cut and paste into a new browser the following link: http://www.surveyz.com/TakeSurvey?id=40460

As this is for academic research, all answers will be kept completely confidential.

Thank you for your assistance.

Denny”

“That survey sucks.”

“Your "Marketing" department needs to teach its students methodology.”

“Male or Female?”

“I'd be happy to answer your survey Denny, but hiking and backpacking are two very different activities and that makes the questions difficult to answer. You might want to distinguish one from the other. Otherwise, your results might be skewed.”

“djpowell, perhaps I could give you some pointers about marketing research.

First, really think about what you want to get out of this research, and design it accordingly. The survey seems to meander. On the same note, keep similar questions together.

Second, and most obvious, don't use open ended questions to often. For a "how often" question, give them choices to click.

Third, limit your questions. You have a lot of redundant questions.

Fourth, ranking questions require a lot of effort and thought on the part of respondents. Use other methods if possible. When results are viewed on the aggregate, you'll still get a good picture of what results are preffered.

Good luck with your project.”

“I thought all surveys were supposed to be repetitive to make sure your answers are consistent.

I thought it was a decent survey especially if Mr. Powell sends me some free product samples!”

“that survey made me want to stop at question 2...so i did”

“I got thirsty while taking the survey. I think its one of those subliminal surveys. Cuz I all of a sudden had the urge to drink Tang. I dont have any Tang. I really grew to dislike it because thats all the boy scouts ever drank while camping.”