Generic Clearance_Qualitative Feedback on Agency Service Delivery_Supporting Statement B-10.28.20

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 Agency expects to use a variety of methodologies for these collections.
For example, the Agency 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
Agency’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 Agency 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 Agency will include the names and
contact information of persons consulted in the specific information collection requests submitted
under this generic clearance.