What should my survey response rate be?

Modified on Fri, 19 Dec at 12:04 PM

One of the most common questions we receive is, “What’s a good survey response rate?” To help you understand this, we’ll define key metrics, share benchmarks, and provide best practices to improve your response rates.

Before determining what constitutes a “good” response rate, it’s important to understand two key terms: Response rate and Completion rate.

Defining Survey Metrics

The Response Rate is the percentage of total recipients (those who received an invitation to take the survey) who started the survey. The Completion Rate is the percentage of respondents who started the survey and completed it.

Average Response and Completion Rates

Our data shows that ParentPulse surveys achieve:

Parent Surveys: Average response rates range from 30% to 35%, with completion rates ranging from 80% to 85%.
Student Surveys: Response rates tend to be slightly lower.
Employee Surveys: Response rates are typically higher.

These rates surpass national averages. Moreover, since most schools upload multiple parents per student, the overall family response rate for parent surveys is closer to 50% in many cases.

If your rates are within or above these ranges, congratulations! You’re achieving excellent results. If your rates fall below these averages, consider implementing the following best practices.

Best Practices to Improve Response Rates

Enable Text Messaging: Schools utilizing ParentPulse’s text messaging feature generally see response rates 5% (or more) higher than those relying solely on email.
Upload Your School Logo: Ensure your school logo is uploaded in the Survey Settings. A recognizable visual cue reassures parents that the survey is legitimate and safe.
Notify Your People: Engage parents by consistently communicating the importance of the survey:
- Send an introductory email at the start of the ParentPulse survey sequence.

- Use creative reminders, such as video messages or printed fliers at school events.

- Remain persistent over the survey cycle, as parents receive invitations at different
times.
- Regular reminders help maintain visibility and encourage participation.

By leveraging these tips and tools, you can maximize the impact of your surveys and gather meaningful feedback from your school community.

What should my survey response rate be?

Enable Text Messaging: Schools utilizing ParentPulse’s text messaging feature generally see response rates 5% (or more) higher than those relying solely on email.

Upload Your School Logo: Ensure your school logo is uploaded in the Survey Settings. A recognizable visual cue reassures parents that the survey is legitimate and safe.

Notify Your People: Engage parents by consistently communicating the importance of the survey: - Send an introductory email at the start of the ParentPulse survey sequence.

Notify Your People: Engage parents by consistently communicating the importance of the survey:
- Send an introductory email at the start of the ParentPulse survey sequence.