Factors That Influence Data Collection

Factor #1: Bias

What it means: The question influences responses in favour of, or against the topic of the data collection.
Example: Suppose a person asks: Don’t you think the price of a movie ticket is too high? This person has a bias against the current ticket price, and the bias influences how the survey question is written.

Factor #2: Use of Language
What it means: The use of language in a question could lead people to give a particular answer.
Example: If you ask: Don’t you think the price of a movie ticket is too high?,the question may lead people to answer yes. A better question would be: Do you think the price of a movie ticket is too high, too low, or fair?

Factor #3: Timing

What it means: When the data are collected could lead to particular results.
Example: A survey is conducted to find opinions on the need for a vehicle to have winter tires. The results may be different if the survey is conducted in August instead of February.

Factor #4: Privacy
What it means: If the topic of the data collection is personal, a person may not want to participate or may give an untrue answer on purpose. Anonymous surveys may help.
Example:  People may not want to participate in a study on weight if it means stepping on a scale in front of other people.

Factor #5: Cultural Sensitivity
What it means:  Cultural sensitivity means that you are aware of other cultures. You must avoid being offensive and asking questions that do not apply to that culture.
Example: Suppose you wanted to know the favourite method of cooking ham, and you asked: Please circle your favourite method: BBQ Bake Fry This question does not apply to everyone because many people do not eat ham. A better question would be: If you eat ham, name your favourite method of cooking it.

Factor #6: Ethics
What it means: Ethics dictate that collected data must not be used for purposes other than those told to the participants. Otherwise, your actions are considered unethical.
Example: Suppose you tell your classmates that you want to know their favourite snacks to help you plan your birthday party. If you then use the information to try to sell your classmates their favourite snacks between classes, your actions would be unethical.

Factor #7: Cost
What it means: The cost of collecting data must be taken into account.
Example: If you need to pay for printing the questionnaires, or to pay people to collect the data, the cost may be more than you can afford.

Factor #8: Time
What it means: The time needed for collecting the data must be considered.
Example: A survey that takes an hour to complete may be too long for most people. This would limit the number of people willing to participate. 

Source: https://jawilliamsschool.ca/download/130445