Ipsos Enyclopedia - Opinion Poll

An opinion poll is a broad term used for any typically public-facing (and often published) survey/poll designed to better understand public opinion.

Definition

An opinion poll is a broad term used for any typically public-facing (and often published) survey/poll designed to better understand public opinion. Webster's defines it as "an activity in which many people are asked the same questions in order to find out what most people think about something ". It is also typically referring to any nationally representative survey.

 

It is very important to "follow the rules" when publishing opinion poll results: it is recommended to include the ACTUAL question/s asked; the dates of fieldwork; an accurate description of the universe and coverage; the sampling methodology; the interviewing methodology; the sample size; the margin of error and even major events that happened during the time of fieldwork.

 

For more information on the conducting and publishing of opinion polls, consult the WAPOR (World Association of Public Opinion Research) website: www.wapor.org

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