Geosurvey – key principles

Designing an effective geo-survey requires combining best practices for online questionnaire design with the specific nature of GIS tools, where questions must be clearly linked to concrete locations on a map.

Here are the 8 key principles:

1. Start with a clear objective

Clearly define what you want to achieve with the geo-survey. A short introduction will encourage respondents to take part and help them understand the purpose of the study.

2. Simple and unambiguous questions

• Use clear, accessible language and avoid complicated jargon.
• Formulate simple, unambiguous questions. A well-designed question addresses only one issue and does not suggest an answer.

3. Linking key questions to location

The map is the heart of participatory spatial research.

The most important geo-survey questions should either refer to a specific location on the map or ask respondents to indicate exact places.

Example:
Point to a place on the map that you consider unsafe / in need of improvement / with the greatest potential.

4. Choosing the right question types

Each type of question works best for different purposes:

• Point or area selection on the map – used to locate needs, barriers, or proposals in a specifc area.
• Closed-ended questions (e.g. choose from a list) – useful when responses from many participants need to be compared, making data analysis easier.
• Open-ended questions – allow you to collect diverse ideas, suggestions, and opinions from respondents.
• Rating scales – help capture subjective assessments of places, services, or proposals.
• Adding photos or files – enables visual documentation of problems or suggestions.

5. Concise instructions

Add short and clear guidance explaining:

• What each type of question means and how to answer it (e.g., open-ended question – write in your own words why…).
• How to mark locations on the map (e.g., double-click a point or select a rectangular area).

6. Clear and logical survey structure

• Start with simple questions and gradually move to more detailed ones.
• Clearly indicate which questions are mandatory.

• Organize the survey to be concise. The completion time should not exceed 10–15 minutes. The shorter the time required, the more likely respondents are to complete it.

7. Test the geo-survey

• Try the survey with a few people and check how long it takes to complete (ideally, it should not take more than 10 minutes).
• Make sure the questions are clear and understandable for respondents.
• Verify that the geo-survey works properly on mobile devices.

8. Thank the respondents

At the end of the survey, thank participants for their involvement. Appreciating their time and contribution helps build positive relationships and encourages further engagement in consultations.