Mockup of Matrix question in use

Version 2.9 adds a new question type for the Form tool. The 'Matrix/Likert-scale' question type is a closed-ended question type that allows you to ask participants about multiple items within a single question, presenting multiple choice questions in a grid.

This question type can be used to gauge satisfaction levels, frequency of use, priorities, agreement levels and more.

There are a number of benefits to using this question type, including:

  • making questions easier to read (on desktop)
  • shortening your surveys by avoiding repetitive questions
  • helping to collect more detailed answers from respondents.


Adding a Matrix/Likert-scale question

To create a Matrix/Likert-scale question, add a new Form and select the 'Matrix/Likert-scale' question type. Give your question a name (e.g. How satisfied are you with each of the following) and choose whether you want the question to be optional or required.

Questions can be added under the 'Rows' heading. You can add up to 20 questions with a limit of 255 characters.

The rating scale that respondents will use to answer the questions can be added under the 'Columns' heading. Up to 10 items with a character limit of 35 characters can be added.

Rating

Add questions by adding new 'rows' and set your rating scale by adding new 'columns'.

Matrix/Likert-scale questions do not render particularly well on mobile devices and tablets as there is not enough space to show all the questions and options in one view. On these devices, the questions will be displayed as individual radio button questions, so keep this in mind when using this question type.

Mobile view of Likert Question

When viewed on mobile, the grid of questions will collapse into individual, multiple-choice questions.

Choosing an appropriate scale

When using the Likert-scale, it is important to choose an appropriate scale for users to rate questions against. You can customise your scale to suit your project, but here are some examples of common scales:


Level of acceptability

1. Totally unacceptable
2. Unacceptable
3. Slightly unacceptable
4. Neutral
5. Slightly acceptable
6. Acceptable
7. Perfectly acceptable

Reflect me?

1. Very untrue of me
2. Untrue of me
3. Somewhat untrue of me
4. Neutral
5. Somewhat true of me
6. True of me
7. Very true of me

Level of importance

1. Not at all important
2. Low importance
3. Slightly important
4. Neutral
5. Moderately important
6. Very important
7. Extremely important

Level of Difficulty

1. Very difficult
2. Difficult
3. Neutral
4. Easy
5. Very easy

Frequency

1. Never
2. Rarely
3. Sometimes
4. Often
5. Always

Priority level

1. Not a priority
2. Low priority
3. Medium priority
4. High priority
5. Essential

Source: Vagias, Wade M. (2006). Likert-type scale response anchors. Clemson International Institute for Tourism & Research Development, Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management. Clemson University.