Local study

Our purpose of the local survey was to learn how other college closets organized, strategized, accepted donations, and managed inventory to find data that we were unable to track down in IU databases and online searches. We developed questions that collect data on strategies and techniques used at other universities. The survey finding helped us shape practical recommendations that fit the Hire Attire budget and provide practical options.

 

Our local study was built to find data on how universities' closets organized, strategized, accepted donations, and managed inventory. We asked a variety of questions that are geared towards these recommendations. The processes and techniques other universities use, provided real life data and practices. Techniques and processes other universities use provided data that was useful and relatable. Our questionnaire was aimed to ask about the best practice in industry trends and how they may be a positive or negative recommendation. 

 

Challenges Collecting Responses from Our Specialized Audience: 25 Calls with 7 Responses

We had contacted 25 different universities, via email or phone call. Multiple of the universities did not contact us back when we had first initiated contact with them, so we had to contact them again. We used the phone number and email address presented on their websites, and we would originally call the university and send an email if we had not received contact.

 

There were 7 universities that contacted us after we reached out. Majority of the surveys were completed over the phone, and our team would use the questionnaire as a way to interview the client. We manually added the responses into the questionnaire for the university we talked with. Then the few universities we emailed the survey to, filled out the form and contacted us when they finished. 

 

The Data Collection Tool: 16 Questions on Google Forms

For our survey tool we used Google Forms to compile the questionnaire and for us to retrieve quick data. Questions 1-4, 9, 12 are basic review of the operations for the closet and basic data information. Questions 5-8, 10 ask about donation techniques (i.e. donation guidelines, donation techniques). Questions 13-16 are asking about how inventory is tracked. These results gave data from other universities and the techniques they implement into their program.