Prior to actual data collection, project managers assure quality by:

• Performing time studies.
• Testing any automated tools such as database CATI programming.
• Performing mock interviews to establish flow of the project.
• Developing project specific training.
• Evaluating methodology targeted to reach ultimate objectives.

Initial Evaluation of the Interview Process

The project manager and one or two other senior interviewers perform the first few hours of all interviewing in order to discover any oversights. Although most problems are identified in the preliminary construction of the study, often there is no way of really knowing what unexpected issues might transpire until actual participants have been surveyed or interviewed.