The questionnaire is the cornerstone of primary data collection in food security assessments. It is the main tool used to gather consistent, reliable, and relevant information from households and communities. Careful design and rigorous testing of the questionnaire are essential to ensure that the data collected will answer the assessment’s key questions and support robust analysis.
Purpose of the Questionnaire
A well-designed questionnaire:
Translates assessment objectives and analysis plans into measurable questions
Ensures data comparability across locations and over time
Minimizes bias and errors in data collection
Supports both quantitative and qualitative analysis
See an example of a comprehensive food security questionnaire here.
Key Considerations in Questionnaire Design
Content: Questions should be directly linked to the assessment’s objectives and analysis plan, typically covering topics such as demographics, livelihoods, food consumption, expenditures, coping strategies, and sometimes nutrition
Structure: Organize questions logically, starting with general information and moving to more sensitive topics
Clarity: Use clear, simple language and avoid ambiguity
Length: Keep the questionnaire as concise as possible while ensuring all necessary information is captured
Pre-testing: Pilot the questionnaire to identify and correct issues before full-scale data collection
Translation: Ensure accurate translation and cultural adaptation for all languages used in the assessment
Data Quality: Apply best practices from the Data Quality Guidance to ensure reliability and validity throughout the questionnaire design and data collection process
Resources
The CFSVA Guidelines provide guidance on questionnaire design, modules, and best practices for food security assessments
The specific food security indicator pages reflect the most up-to-date information about the various modules
Survey Designer is the key resource for developing coded questionnaires following the most recently updated resources
For more information, please contact the Assessments and Targeting Unit in HQ VAM at global.assessmentandtargeting@wfp.org.