IntelliSurvey Blog

Benefits of Blended Sample

Written by IntelliSurvey Staff | September 26, 2024

Sample blending (using respondents from multiple sources) is a highly effective strategy for meeting your survey quotas while also achieving a more representative and diverse respondent pool. Using a single source can often fall short of meeting a survey's exact needs since all online panels are built differently. As such, blending sample from multiple sources becomes both a practical and necessary approach.

Faster Fielding Times

Most panel companies prioritize using their own assets first before bringing another supplier on board to get the remaining completes. This approach can delay fielding times and hinder the efficiency of data collection.

In contrast, IntelliSurvey does not maintain its own panel, which allows us to remain unbiased and agile in our approach. From day one, we leverage our partnerships with over 120 sample providers to strategically blend sample, bringing in multiple sources early in the process. This method ensures that quotas are met quickly, reducing time in field.

Enhanced Feasibility

Blending samples from multiple sources significantly improves the feasibility. We source respondents from a variety of means, including online panels, phone interviewing, expert networks, custom recruitment, and combinations thereof, to optimize the methodology for your specific audience. This approach allows access to a broader variety of respondent pools, each offering unique characteristics, behaviors, and perspectives.

Superior Data Quality

Each online panel may have its own inherent biases, such as specific demographics or behavioral characteristics being over-represented due to the way the panel is recruited or maintained. Blending multiple panels mitigates these biases, as the strengths of one panel can offset the weaknesses of another, leading to more balanced and accurate data.

Adaptability and Flexibility

One of the key advantages of blended sampling is its ability to adapt to the specific needs of a study. This flexibility ensures sample selection is specifically designed to produce the highest quality data for a specific research question.

At IntelliSurvey, we are deeply invested in thoroughly understanding our client’s research goals before programming even begins. This in-depth understanding allows us to create a custom blend of sample tailored to your specific project criteria and adapt it as necessary to achieve your desired results.

Conclusion

Whether you’re juggling tight deadlines or navigating complex audience requirements, blended sampling allows you to fine-tune your respondent pool to ensure you hit your quotas quickly with high-quality participants.  

By leveraging the strength of multiple panels and respondent sources, IntelliSurvey’s flexible approach helps you gather faster, more reliable results that are genuinely representative of your target audience. For more information on our field management services, please contact us today.