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Estimating the cost of an interview survey using geographic information system software
1Department of Public Health, University of Western Australia, Perth.
Australian and New Zealand Journal of Public Health
|February 21, 1998
Summary
Estimating interview survey costs is challenging. Geographic Information System (GIS) mapping optimized routes for 533 medical facilities, providing accurate time and cost projections for survey fieldwork.
Area of Science:
- Health Services Research
- Geographic Information Science
Background:
- Accurate cost estimation for interview surveys is complex.
- Fieldwork logistics significantly impact survey budgets and timelines.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the utility of Geographic Information System (GIS) for optimizing survey routes.
- To provide reliable time and cost estimates for conducting a large-scale medical facility survey.
Main Methods:
- Utilized GIS software to map and calculate the shortest time route.
- Surveyed 533 medical facility locations within Perth.
- Developed time and cost projections based on optimized routing.
Main Results:
- GIS analysis successfully determined the most efficient route for survey fieldwork.
- Precise time and cost estimates were generated for the entire survey operation.
- The interviewer accepted a contract based on the provided GIS-derived estimates.
Conclusions:
- GIS is a valuable tool for improving the accuracy of survey cost and time estimations.
- Optimized routing through GIS can enhance the efficiency of fieldwork logistics.
- This methodology provides a practical framework for budgeting and contracting interview surveys.