Table 1.

Advantages and disadvantages of survey methods

Method of data collection	Advantages	Disadvantages
Personal	• Complex questions	• Expensive
	• Visual aids can be used	• Time inefficient
	• Higher response rates	• Training to avoid bias
Telephone	• Allows clarification	• No visual aids
	• Larger radius than personal	• Difficult to develop rapport
	• Less expensive or time consuming
	• Higher response rates
Postal	• Larger target	• Non-response
	• Visual aids (although limited)	• Time for data compilation
	• Lower response rates
Electronic	• Larger target	• Non-response
	• Visual aids	• Not all subjects accessible
	• Quick response
	• Quick data compilation
	• Lower response rates