For any research study to be valid there must be inherent validity built-in to the research process. That means assessing respondents’ attitudes and preferences to identify all variables and biases that could affect the way respondents answer a particular question(s). Research analysts must also verify assumptions of response data analysis such as correlations, to address any incongruent relationships.

Using a margin-of-error (MOE) is considered a survey best practice, as it allows the viewers of the results to see the possible “highs and lows” associated with the findings. MOE is does not validate research alone but is a symbol of inherent validity to the study. Researchers must take an “end-to-end” approach in building validity into the survey process if they are to truly ensure data is well-founded.