Web‐based and Mail Surveys: A Comparison of Response, Data, and Cost

The mail survey is the most common data collection technique used by logistics researchers today. Many researchers have noted that response rates to mail surveys have been declining. The Internet offers logistics researchers several potential advantages over traditional mail surveys. This research compares these two methods across response rates, speed of response, consistency of results, and cost. The research also provides unique insight regarding the ability of electronic methods to gain interest and subsequent participation among potential respondents thereby helping in theory testing.