0377 SS Part B 20181129

B. Collections of Information Employing Statistical Methods
Data collection methods and procedures will vary; however, the primary purpose of these
collections will be for internal management purposes; there are no plans to publish or
otherwise release this information.
1.

Describe the potential respondent universe and any sampling or other
respondent selection methods to be used.
The activities under this clearance may involve samples of self-selected customers, as
well as convenience samples, and quota samples, with respondents selected either to
cover a broad range of customers or to include specific characteristics related to
certain products or services. Results will not be used to make statements
representative of the universe of study, to produce statistical descriptions (careful,
repeatable measurements), or to generalize the data beyond the scope of the sample.
The specific sample planned for each individual collection and the method for
soliciting participation will be described fully in each collection request.
Qualitative surveys are tools used by program managers to change or improve
programs, products, or services. The accuracy, reliability, and applicability of the
results of these surveys are adequate for their purpose.
The samples associated with this collection are not subjected to the same scrutiny as
scientifically drawn samples where estimates are published or otherwise released to
the public.

2.

Describe the procedures for the collection of information including:
Data collection methods and procedures will vary and the specifics of these will be
provided with each collection request. APHIS expects to use a variety of
methodologies for these collections. For example, APHIS or its contractors may use
commercial survey-specific software to automate its collection and analysis of
feedback. In addition to physical copies, information collection instruments may be
electronically disseminated and/or posted on target pages of APHIS’ web site.
Telephone scripts, personal interviews, and focus groups with professional guidance
and moderation may also be used.

3.

Describe methods to maximize response rates and to deal with issues of nonresponse.
Information collected under this generic clearance will not yield generalizable
quantitative findings; it can provide useful customer input, but it does not yield data
about customer opinions that can be generalized.

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4.

Describe any tests of procedures or methods to be undertaken.
Pretesting may be done with internal staff, a limited number of external colleagues,
and/or customers who are familiar with the programs and products. If the number of
pretest respondents exceeds nine members of the public, APHIS will submit the
pretest instruments for review under this generic clearance.

5.

Provide the name and telephone number of individuals consulted on statistical
aspects of the design and the name of the agency unit, contractor(s), grantee(s),
or other person(s) who will actually collect and /or analyze the information for
the agency.
Each program will obtain information from statisticians in the development, design,
conduct, and analysis of customer/partner service surveys, when appropriate. This
statistical expertise will be available from APHIS statisticians or from contractors and
the APHIS will include the names and contact information of persons consulted in the
specific information collection requests submitted under this generic clearance.

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