Solutions to address low response rates in online surveys

Online surveys are increasingly popular in research given their cost-effectiveness and potential reach. However, low response rates remain a key contributor to bias and the overall quality of results. Having a well-designed survey, providing financial remunerations, sending personalized invitations, offering regular reminders, and using more than one recruitment strategy are evidence-based approaches to improve response rates. Given the potential for illegitimate responses to online surveys, approaches that minimize illegitimate participation are discussed.

Automated summary

Online surveys have become increasingly popular in research due to their cost-effectiveness and potential reach, but low response rates still remain a major issue. To improve response rates, evidence-based approaches include designing well-structured surveys, providing financial incentives, sending personalized invitations, offering regular reminders, and implementing multiple recruitment strategies. Additionally, strategies to minimize illegitimate participation in online surveys are discussed.