Organizing an online satisfaction survey is an important step for a training organization. It provides valuable information. It’s essential to remember that the goal of the survey is to gather learners’ feedback on various aspects, such as:
- the training itself,
- the effectiveness of the teaching team,
- the teaching method used,
- the resources available to them, etc.
There are various ways to conduct the survey, but distributing online questionnaires is a very advantageous approach. It allows for obtaining concrete results in the shortest time. There are effective methods to do this.
The results obtained must be analyzed carefully. After this step, training organizations must address other important issues:
- What should be done with the analysis results?
- How to use the results to improve training?
This article offers some answers to providers in the professional training sector.
How to effectively analyze survey results?
A satisfaction survey primarily helps to know whether the training offer has met learners’ expectations. It also helps to understand their requirements, satisfaction levels, and disappointments. However, the results of the survey must be analyzed to extract the desired information.
The analysis process
This is a lengthy process that should be done with care. It starts with preparing the data. The principle is to sort the data using filters. It’s crucial to eliminate incomplete or illogical data.
Using efficient software will make this step easier. Edusign offers a tool that simplifies:
- the distribution of questionnaires,
- the collection of responses,
- the analysis.
Analysis methods
Several methods are available for analysis. The approach depends on the distributed questionnaires. A descriptive analysis can be conducted to better understand the information. Quantitative data analysis is also necessary to assess:
- engagement rate,
- participation rate in proposed activities,
- success rate,
- dropout and absenteeism rate,
- satisfaction rate, etc.
This data provides insights into the quality of the courses offered. A qualitative data analysis should also be included. This allows determining, for example, whether the explanations were clear and satisfactory or if the trainer was qualified. The process ends with the creation of a comprehensive report.
Taking into account key points
The goal of launching a satisfaction survey is to create an action plan. But before that, some important points should be considered.
Positive feedback
To create an action plan aimed at improving training, it’s necessary to first identify positive feedback. These provide information about:
- achieved objectives,
- strengths of the training,
- learners’ needs that were met.
Having this information helps to identify strengths, which can optimize the reputation of the training center. These can be shared on the website or social media. Positive feedback will become strong arguments that may encourage new clients to sign up for the next training session.
Negative feedback
Negative feedback is also a valuable source of information. While it is impossible to fully satisfy everyone, a good training center should be able to meet learners’ essential needs.
Negative feedback reflects the weaknesses of the training process. It reveals aspects that might lead learners to:
- drop out,
- not renew the experience,
- turn to another provider.
Considering learners’ expectations
Through questionnaire responses, learners express their expectations. If they provide negative feedback, it indicates that they are expecting an improvement.
Tip: It’s better to create targeted online questionnaires. These allow for a more precise understanding of learners’ desires and needs.
Evaluating the impact of changes
Even though the goal is to improve the quality of training to satisfy clients, rushing ahead is not advisable. First, the impact of the changes should be evaluated. Is there a risk that the changes will create new problems?
Changes might result in:
- an increase in training duration,
- the need for additional resources,
- the need to improve trainers’ skills,
- changes in the course structure, etc.
Creating an improvement plan based on online survey results
Several solutions are possible. The area of improvement should be carefully determined. Sometimes, adding a few additional pieces of information or making minor changes is enough.
That said, it’s entirely possible to make significant changes if necessary. It’s important to think about how to proceed. Informing learners is essential when changes involve the course organization or content.
For example, it’s possible to make courses more interactive or add extra activities.
Warning: Changes should not hinder the achievement of the set goals. On the contrary, they should:
- improve students’ results,
- reduce the risk of absenteeism and dropouts,
- increase training quality.
Some precautions to take
Analyzing the results of the online survey takes time. It’s essential to avoid jumping to conclusions too quickly. Comparing data thoroughly and taking the time to evaluate feedback is required.
Rushing could lead to unnecessary changes. Therefore, it’s important to step back and carefully review both negative and positive comments.
A hasty reaction is also discouraged, even if the content of the comments is shocking. Some learners may make unpleasant remarks about the training center, the teaching team, or the course. It’s essential to read the feedback several times to understand the messages they convey.