FAQ

What is PollSmart?

We offer self-service access to the same type of statewide polling data regularly used by campaigns and news organizations. We only conduct statewide polls for President, Senate, Governor, etc.

What methodology do you use?

Data for PollSmart surveys are collected using an online polling methodology.

Today, fewer people have landlines, and many who do won't answer them or participate in a telephone survey. While many phone pollsters have included cellphone interviewing, most cellphone users won't answer a call from a number they don't recognize. Plus, most cellphones now have built-in features for blocking specific phone numbers, and mobile carriers also offer their own blocking tools.

Also, by removing live interviewers, respondents to our polls are more candid and honest about their opinions and their stated voting intentions. Online and mobile polling also allows us to reach a sufficient number of younger people who are often underrepresented in phone polls.

Overall, online polling is genuinely the most accurate methodology.

How do you get your sample?

The most important factor in the quality of a survey is the survey sample. How many men vs. women are in the sample? How many people over 80 years old? How many Republicans vs. Democrats vs. Independents?

We strive to obtain the largest possible sample size. Larger sample sizes improve accuracy and reduce the margin of error, and most of our polls are based on at least 1,000 completed online interviews.

Reporting and Weighting

After polls are completed, data is weighted to ensure the sample reflects the overall population of voters in terms of age, race, gender, political party, geography, and other factors.

The proper weighting of a sample is essential to reduce bias and ensure the sample better represents the target population.

In addition to standard weights, we also use our proprietary behavioral weighting to accurately reflect the composition of the online and offline electorate in each state.

Custom Surveys?

PollSmart MR is designed with standardized and automated polling templates that suit the needs of most of our clients and are built to survey likely and registered voters in a particular state. Thanks to automation, we can provide a lower cost, turnkey, solution. Pricing is listed for each poll and can be purchased via credit card on our website.

If you do need a custom option, we do offer custom polling solutions. To inquire about pricing and delivery, go to the Contact Us page and submit your requirements and/or questions. We will respond with a quote.

How much does it cost to do a poll?

For each of our turnkey polls, the cost is listed on our state polls page. Thanks to the use of automation and standardization, our pricing is very competitive when compared to most political polling firms.

How long does it take to do my poll?

For most polls, we will provide you with the final results within seven days. This includes a report showing the final weighted results and our standard crosstabs.