The main advantage of the surveys is their objectivity. Here an attempt is made to make all steps of research independent of the understanding of researcher. For example, random sampling is preferred over purposive sampling so that the decision to identify sampling units is taken in an unbiased manner.

In analysis plan, the researcher must decide in advance what statistics, graphs, charts and models would be required to interpret data so that the objectives of the study are achieved. We have found that this has often helped us even in adding some items to an interview schedule or deleting some from there. Interview schedules with all close ended questions are called structured interview schedules and those with some close ended and some open ended questions are called semi-structured interview schedules. Lastly, deciding about the organization of the report in advance also helps. The report must be divided into a number of chapters. The first chapter presents the statement of the problem. It may also cover the review of literature, conceptual framework of the study, objectives and hypotheses. The second chapter may present the methodology and methods. The third chapter may present the characteristics of the sample. This is followed by two or three chapters of major findings. The last chapter is devoted to discussion. It should include limitations of the study and suggest some problems for future research.

KEY RESPONDENTS INTERVIEW

There are some people in the field who know a lot about subjects relevant for the study. They may be defined as key respondents and they may be contacted to learn more about the subject. For example, police officials can tell a lot about cases of domestic violence, rape and other crimes against women in the area and also relate them to social structure and value system of the region. Doctors can tell a lot about pockets of vulnerability under their jurisdiction, causes of STI/RTI and HIV/AIDS, general health beliefs, and social class variations in risk. School-teachers can tell a lot about variations in and causes of school drop outs. Migrant workers can tell about the causes of migration, routes that migrants follow, and the life and risks at places of destination.