Supervisor-to-Interviewer Ratio

This entry addresses the issue of how the average number of interviewers that are assigned to a survey supervisor affects data quality. There are many factors that affect survey interviewer performance and success. Individual skill set, training, experience, and questionnaire design all influence the ability of interviewers to gain cooperation and gather accurate data. The one ongoing factor that has a significant impact on data quality in surveys that are interviewer-administered is the interaction of the supervisor with the telephone interviewer. Sometimes called a monitor, coach, team lead, or project/section/floor supervisor, this staff position gives management the greatest leverage to influence the human aspect of such survey projects.

The supervisors of survey interviewers may fulfill many roles in a survey project, including any or all of ...