Google Survey Tool—Free, Easy, and Impact/Outcome Oriented

Abstract

The objective was to identify and utilize a survey tool that is easy for the creator and user, furnishes a comprehensive summary of the surveys, including graphs and charts, and provides impacts and outcomes needed for ongoing reporting. Several survey tools were evaluated including those used in the past. Many of the tools made the creation process challenging by allowing other users to change the survey or delete it, resulting in rework and frustration. All Hillsborough County Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ staff have utilized the Google Survey tool and found it to be the most user-friendly. Surveys can be created in a short amount of time with emails generated from Google Survey or Extension staff. More completed surveys were received using Google Surveys than when other survey tools were used. Google survey cannot be deleted or changed by others inside or outside the organization. It provides an excellent summary of survey results, simplifying the processes used by many agents and staff. The Google survey tool is a very effective, no-cost, and easy-to-use technology for county and state agents who need to capture programmatic results.