Clarifying the “Progress” Of Progress Indicators
Abstract:
In Web surveys, progress indicators inform respondents of their progress, using a variety of design approaches. A graphic-based method usually involves the image of a progress bar, while a text-based method involves using simple text (often percent completed). Sometimes a combination of graphic- and text-based designs is used (see Couper, Traugott, & Lamias, 2001; Heerwegh & Loosveldt, 2006). Progress indicators can also be displayed on every screen or intermittently, or at the respondents’ request (see Conrad et al., 2005). The main argument for using a progress indicator is that it motivates respondents to complete the survey by making the end of the survey appear visibly nearer with every question answered. Read more