How do you analyze and interpret the data and feedback from a community survey?

1 Prepare the data

Before you can analyze and interpret the data and feedback from a community survey, you need to prepare it for analysis. This means checking the quality and completeness of the data, cleaning and coding any open-ended responses, and organizing the data into a format that is easy to work with. You can use software tools such as Excel, Google Sheets, or SurveyMonkey to help you with this process.

2 Summarize the data

The next step is to summarize the data and feedback from a community survey using descriptive statistics and visualizations. Descriptive statistics are numerical measures that describe the main features of the data, such as the mean, median, mode, frequency, percentage, range, and standard deviation. Visualizations are graphical displays that help you see patterns, trends, and outliers in the data, such as charts, graphs, tables, and maps. You can use software tools such as Excel, Google Sheets, or Tableau to help you with this process.

3 Analyze the data

The third step is to analyze the data and feedback from a community survey using inferential statistics and thematic analysis. Inferential statistics are methods that help you test hypotheses and draw conclusions about the population based on the sample data, such as correlation, regression, t-test, ANOVA, and chi-square. Thematic analysis is a qualitative method that helps you identify and explore the main themes and patterns in the feedback, such as coding, categorizing, and interpreting. You can use software tools such as SPSS, R, or NVivo to help you with this process.

4 Interpret the data

The fourth step is to interpret the data and feedback from a community survey using logic and critical thinking. This means explaining what the results mean in relation to your research questions, objectives, and assumptions, as well as considering the limitations, implications, and recommendations of the findings. You can use frameworks such as SWOT, PESTEL, or SMART to help you with this process.

5 Communicate the results

The fifth step is to communicate the results of your analysis and interpretation to your stakeholders, such as the community members, partners, funders, or policymakers. This means presenting the key findings, insights, and recommendations in a clear, concise, and engaging way, using appropriate language, tone, and format. You can use tools such as PowerPoint, Prezi, or Canva to help you with this process.

6 Evaluate the impact

The sixth and final step is to evaluate the impact of your analysis and interpretation on your community organizing work. This means measuring and monitoring the outcomes, outputs, and feedback of your actions based on the results of your survey, as well as reflecting on the lessons learned, challenges faced, and opportunities for improvement. You can use tools such as Google Analytics, SurveyMonkey, or Feedbackify to help you with this process.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?