Publication
On the issue of collecting subjective data: Experiences from a small-scale Field Operational Test
The paper presents a subset of the experiences regarding the collection of subjective data made in a small scale field operational test, in particular the design, distribution, and overall management of questionnaires. One conclusion drawn is that the standardised instruments for collecting data on driving behaviour need further development in order to address drivers of (private) car and professional drivers. A second conclusion is that many of the instruments used to collect information on personality traits etc. have aged and require updating in order to become valid again. Overall, standard questionnaires/instruments need to be “contextualised” in terms of time, national culture, and community. Furthermore, a web-based survey solution will not necessarily solve general problems regarding loss of data or the need for careful monitoring and reminders. Finally, the importance of carrying out complementary and indepth interviews is stressed if the objective of the study is not only to identify that, but also why.