Definition: Survey

Category: Survey sampling

A survey refers to any form of data collection. A sample survey is more restricted in scope: the data collection is based on a sample, a subset of total population - i.e. not total count of target population which is called a census. However, in sample surveys some sub-populations may be investigated completely while the most sub-populations are subject to selected samples. 

Descriptive surveys versus analytical surveys

Descriptive surveys, including censuses, are typical in statistical offices. They tend present information on parameters like totals, averages or proportions at the total population level or some well-defined sub-populations. In surveys where the emphasis is on analysis, the interest is focused on connections and interdependences between phenomena. The parameters of interest are connected with statistical models, such as linear models, and are represented by correlation or regression coefficients. However, it is important for both types of surveys to estimate the unknown parameters as reliably as possible.

Social surveys vs. Business surveys

In social surveys the focus is related with persons and households: e.g. population statistics, labour force participation, wages and salaries, household consumption, poverty and income distribution, education, cultural activities, health and other interested topics. 

In business surveys the focus is related with enterprises, establishments and/or other business units like the local kind of activity units, including farms. The interest may vary from production composition and amount to investment plans, employment, use of energy, output waste etc.

Social surveys and business surveys differ from each other also in other aspects. In official statistics business surveys are often mandatory while social surveys tend to be voluntary; the data collection modes are more versatile in social surveys; even the sampling designs can be different. http://ec.europa.eu/eurostat/ramon/statmanuals/files/KS-RA-08-003-EN.pdf