A Mixed-Methods Approach to Survey Program Development: A Hybrid Workplace Example

This paper details the steps used to redesign a survey program when the COVID-19 pandemic meant that the existing survey was no longer meeting the needs of the organization. While applied specifically to a workplace survey of employees, these steps can be applied to the development or refinement of surveys on any topic. The process involved three studies. The first was foundational research conducted through in-depth interviews with employees, where we identified key work activities and the value of the office, particularly around collaboration and connection. The second study was instrument development, where we used cognitive interviews to refine survey questions, ensuring clarity and accuracy in measuring work activities and barriers. The third study was a small-scale field test of the survey where we assessed item performance and response behavior that led to refinements in the survey design and administration procedures. The resulting full-scale survey tool has been instrumental in understanding the value of the office in a hybrid work environment, but we continue to evaluate and improve the program to ensure it evolves along with the future of work. This paper highlights the importance of using a mixed-methods approach to develop a scalable instrument to gather high-quality quantitative data.