Surveys as a Complementary Method for Web Log Analysis

Every research methodology for data collection has both strengths and limitations, and this is certainly true for transaction log analysis. Therefore, researchers often need to use other data collection methods in conjunction with transaction logs.

I co-authored a chapter with Lee Raine, Director of the Pew Internet & American Life Project. In our chapter, we discuss surveys as a companion data collection method for transaction log analysis.

In the chapter, we present a brief review of survey research literature, with a focus on the use of surveys for Web-related research. We identify the steps in implementing survey research and designing a survey instrument.

We conclude with a case study of a large electronic survey from the Pew Internet & American Life Project to illustrate what benefits surveys in conjunction with transaction logs can bring to a research study.

See the book chapters on surveys as a complementary method to Web log analysis