To be (accounted for) or not to be: Factors influencing probability of non-response in economic tendency surveys
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Abstract
Non-response constitutes the major challenge for empirical studies based on survey data as it introduces the element of self-selection and damages representativeness of surveys. So far, formal analyses of causes of survey non-response have not resulted in supplying satisfactory remedial measures. The aim of this paper is to establish key factors affecting probability that a firm will respond to an economic tendency survey, and to propose methods to increase response rates. Empirical results lead to conclusion that information collected in the RIED (Research Institute for Economic Development of the Warsaw School of Economics) ąuestionnaires does not allow to identify factors that influence non-response. The only statistically significant finding is a tendency of petroleum, chemical, pharmaceutical, rubber and plastic producers to be more responsive than other companies. Any additional factors that determine probability of responding to the RIED economic tendency survey remain unknown. Short-term solutions to the non-response problem include establishing direct contact with non-respondents and use of incentives; in the long-run, reąuests for additional information from the respondents may facilitate further studies on causes of survey non-response.(original abstract)
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References
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