Abstract: As survey instruments shift more towards electronic and online modes, there is a greater need to learn not just how respondents may understand and process survey questions --something often done through cognitive pretesting-- but how they will navigate online instruments, which can be investigated with usability testing.

When cognitive and usability testing are conducted in tandem, many important considerations arise and both methods must be adapted accordingly. Recent studies we have conducted have demonstrated the complexities of this combined methodology and highlight the special considerations that must be given to this research approach. From project planning, to interviewer training, to data collection and analysis, the research process must be adapted to address the many complexities and important points of consideration unique to this dual approach to qualitative research that vary from either singular approach.

Among these considerations are the staffing of tech savvy interviewers with the ability to troubleshoot in the field, additional targeted training, and report structures that accommodate both cognitive and usability findings without compromising either. These and more will be discussed in our presentation.