Real-time data evaluation and validation is commonly highlighted as a major advantage of web-based surveys over other self-administered modes. However, there has been little research on the effects of specific validation methods on the data collection process and data quality. More elaborate interactive data evaluation, especially that particular to self-administered CAI, has been under-utilized not merely from lack of familiarity to the questionnaire designer, but also due to the necessity for custom scripting/programming of most such features. For real-time validations to be utilized effectively in web-based surveys, survey designers must: (1) understand the scope of what is possible within the interactive capabilities of a web-based survey technology, (2) develop supportive empirical evidence on various methods and features, and (3) acquire the appropriate tools to enable their implementation.

We will review currently used standards for web-based survey real-time validations. These standards will be presented as examples from actual web-based surveys in which the authors have been involved. Validations discussed will include respondent authentication, required response validations, data type and format checks, range checks, and consistency checks where responses are compared with previous responses or known information. Empirical evidence from several experiments and practical experience with the use of such validations will be presented. Where available, a review of the literature will be included to assist in the justification for use of such validations.

Included in this discussion we will present current validation capabilities that exist in most web-based survey software systems. Until such validations are common features of web-based survey software, their use will be limited to those who have extensive resources for custom programming.