Advantages and challenges posed by SMS survey methods
As methods of communication proliferate, researchers are continuously exploring means to collect data from informants in ways that best fit their methodologies, populations and budgets. Conducting surveys through SMS has emerged as an alternative to more traditional paper-based and phone surveys because of the ubiquitous use of mobile phones, even among low-resource populations. In a recently self-published working paper we describe previous uses of the SMS platform to conduct survey research, and we discuss important methodological considerations when using this medium. The purpose of this working paper is to encourage critical consideration of pros and cons of SMS surveying, and to inform the development of a web platform that might enable researchers to fully capitalize on the advantages of SMS while mitigating its most salient shortcomings. We invite all practitioners and researchers to send us questions, comments and advice as followers of this web blog, and/or to visit the