What advantages do mail and online surveys typically offer?

Mail and online surveys provide the advantage of anonymity for respondents, which can significantly enhance the quality of the data collected. When individuals feel that their responses are confidential and not tied to their identities, they are more likely to provide honest and candid answers. This element of anonymity can lead to more accurate insights, especially on sensitive topics where respondents might otherwise feel hesitant to share their true opinions or experiences.

This characteristic also helps in building trust between the researcher and the participants, which is critical for obtaining reliable data. In contrast, while other options, such as immediate feedback or cost effectiveness, can be benefits of certain survey methods, they do not specifically highlight the unique advantage of maintaining respondents' anonymity. Similarly, in-person interaction may facilitate engagement but does not lend itself to the same level of privacy that mail and online surveys offer.