Mail accounting survey response patterns: an example of the total design method

This paper describes how questionnaire administration techniques (such as indication of institutional support for a research topic, anonymity, promise of a feedback of research results) were and can be used to enhance the patterns (quality) of response from potential respondents. It suggests that a properly designed and pretested questionnaire which incorporates an appeal for assistance, guarantees anonymity, promises a feedback of research results and advertises the support of reputable institutions, can influence response rate, response speed, and response completeness.