Question

Correctly match the data collection method with a potential disadvantage.

-       a.       b.       c.       d.       e.       f.       g.    Surveys/Questionnaires          -       a.       b.       c.       d.       e.       f.       g.    Observations       -       a.       b.       c.       d.       e.       f.       g.    Interviews       -       a.       b.       c.       d.       e.       f.       g.    Document Reviews

a. Usually are time-consuming and it can be difficult to analyze and quantify results. b. Allow data collection only in the work setting. c. Can be invalidated by supervisor bias and may be prohibited for union employees. d. Carry biased organizational perspective and may not represent the complete picture. e. Often do not indicate causes of problems or possible solutions and tend to reflect the past rather than the future. f. Because they do not allow for a ‘ free response’ the data collected may not effectively get at causes of problems or possible solutions. g. Selecting people to participate in the process is difficult, time-consuming, and costly.

Answer 1

Interview:                      a - usually are time-consuming and can be difficult to analyse and quantify results.

• Requires excellent interpersonal skills for attaining accurate results.

Document Reviews:      d - carry biased organisational perspective and may not represent the complete picture

• Contain archival data which may be biased and hence not helpful in gaining true insights into the problem at hand.                                 

Observation:                  b - allow data collection only in the work setting

• A simple but a very time-consuming process and prone to bias of the observer.

Survey/Questionnaire:   g - selecting people to participate in the process is difficult, time-consuming and costly.

• A relatively inexpensive method requiring great time management and writing skills.
• People may not always agree to participate in a survey and hence persuading skills become important.