Relevance & Research Question
The German Federal Statistical Office (Destatis) is continuing to develop its data collection instruments and is working on smart surveys in this context. By smart surveys we mean the combination of traditional question-based survey data collection and digital trace data collection by accessing device sensor data via an application (GPS, camera, microphone, accelerometer, ...).
Unlike traditional surveys, smart surveys not only ask respondents for information but also require them to download an app and allow access to sensor data. Destatis conducted focus groups to learn more about the attitudes, motives and obstacles regarding the willingness to participate in smart surveys. This was done as part of the European Union's Smart Survey Implementation (SSI) project, in which Destatis is participating alongside other project partners.
Methods & Data
Three focus groups with a total of 16 participants were conducted at the end of October 2023. The group discussions were led by a moderator using a guideline. The discussions lasted around two hours each and were video-recorded.
Results
Overall, it became clear that participants are more willing to take part in a survey, to download an app and to grant access to sensor data if they see a purpose in doing so on the one hand and have trust on the other. In order to motivate people to participate, it seems particularly important against this background to provide transparent information explaining why to conduct the survey, why they should participate, why access to the sensor data is desired as well as what is being done to ensure a high level of data protection and data security.
Added Value
In official statistics, the development of new survey methods is seen as an important step towards modern data collection. However, modern survey methods can only make a positive contribution if they are used by respondents. The results are intended to provide information on how potential respondents can best be addressed to participate. In the further course of the SSI project, a quantitative field test for recruitment is planned. The results of the focus groups will also be used to prepare this test.