DCBE SS 2017 Pt B fin for Generic Clearance for the Collection of Qualitative Feedback on Agency Service Delivery

B. STATISTICAL METHODS

Data collection methods and procedures will vary; however, the primary purpose of these
collections will be for internal management purposes; there are no plans to publish or otherwise
release this information.
1. Universe and Respondent Selection
The activities under this clearance may involve samples of self-selected customers, as well
as convenience samples, and quota samples, with respondents selected either to cover a
broad range of customers or to include specific characteristics related to certain products or
services. Results will not be used to make statements representative of the universe of
study, to produce statistical descriptions (careful, repeatable measurements), or to
generalize the data beyond the scope of the sample. The specific sample planned for each
individual collection and the method for soliciting participation will be described fully in
each collection request.
Qualitative surveys are tools used by program managers to change or improve programs,
products, or services. The accuracy, reliability, and applicability of the results of these
surveys are adequate for their purpose.
The samples associated with this collection are not subjected to the same scrutiny as
scientifically drawn samples where estimates are published or otherwise released to the
public.

2. Procedures for Collecting Information
Data collection methods and procedures will vary and the specifics of these will be provided
with each collection request. The FTC expects to use a variety of methodologies for these
collections. For example, the FTC or its contractors may use commercial survey-specific
software to automate its collection and analysis of feedback. In addition to physical copies,
information collection instruments may be electronically disseminated and/or posted on
target pages of the FTC’s web site. Telephone scripts, personal interviews, and focus groups
with professional guidance and moderation may also be used.

3. Methods to Maximize Response
Information collected under this generic clearance will not yield generalizable quantitative
findings; it can provide useful customer input, but it does not yield data about customer
opinions that can be generalized.
4. Testing of Procedures
Pretesting may be done with internal staff, a limited number of external colleagues, and/or
customers who are familiar with the programs and products. If the number of pretest

respondents exceeds nine members of the public, the FTC will submit the pretest
instruments for review under this generic clearance.

5. Contacts for Statistical Aspects and Data Collection
Each program will obtain information from statisticians in the development, design,
conduct, and analysis of customer/partner service surveys, when appropriate. This
statistical expertise will be available from agency statisticians or from contractors and the
FTC will include the names and contact information of persons consulted in the specific
information collection requests submitted under this generic clearance.

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