The keys to quality in survey products

It is noted that methods for attaining high-quality products from statistical surveys have often concentrated on after-the-fact inspection of the data to determine gross errors. An alternative approach which is consistent with the philosophy espoused by Deming (1982) is to view each step in the operations of the survey as a process. Each process presents an opportunity for establishing controls that, if implemented, result in higher-quality survey products. The present discussion is aimed at the procurement officer whose task is the acquisition of survey services. Particular attention is given to sample design and selection, instrument design, control of field operations, quality assurance in data preparation, and standardization. It is the hope of the authors that changes suggested in contracting specifications will result in greater priority being given to the quality aspects of proposal designs. This desire is consistent with Deming´s emphasis on building quality into the system and his de-emphasis of reliance on the lowest bidder