Web 2.0 Tool Review: FluidSurveys

This week I am reviewing an online survey-builder called FluidSurveys (www.fluidsurveys.com). FluidSurveys enables you to build a survey from scratch by dragging and dropping question styles and customizing the questions and answers. The data from the surveys are collected and stored for your analysis. You can also import surveys from other online apps such as SurveyMonkey or Zoomerang. I was always aware of all the survey tools available online, but I had no idea that you could actually use the tools for more than just surveys. 

Ways to Use Online Survey Tools:

• Polls
• Surveys, Data Collection
• Applications
• Information Sheets
• Quizzes, Tests

Ideas for the Education Context:

• Feedback from staff (about trainings or leadership)
• Feedback from parents
• Parent information forms
• Volunteer forms
• Field trip forms
• After-school or club applications and registration
• Student quiz assignments (home or in technology lab)

Advantages and Disadvantages of Fluidsurveys
Advantages

• Free
• Many question styles are available (true/false, text box, multiple choice, check box, multiple grid questions)
• Customizable style
• Displays and charts all responses
• Filtering options allow you to search for specific entries

Disadvantages

• Half of the "cooler" tools are available only to paid users
• Data analysis for the free account needs improvement (designed for widescreens, no chart data)
• Can not download data on the free account

Before Using
You only need an internet connection and web browser. Unlike the other tools that I have reviewed, I can't say that this is "relatively easy." It would be helpful if you have previous experience using another survey program or have tried to design something using a Web 2.0 tool. FluidSurveys has a lot of options to try, but if you are not technology saavy, it would help if you do a lot of exploring on the site before you make your product.

This is the first survey tool that I have ever tried. I will take a look at at least another different online survey tool and let you know how it compares!