MATRIX

Introduction

The Matrix question type on the Chisquares platform allows researchers to streamline the process of gathering structured responses across multiple related questions. This feature is particularly useful when a fixed set of response options applies to multiple question stems, making data collection efficient and structured.
With the Matrix question type, users can input a set of row items (question stems) and a corresponding set of answer choices (columns). Each row can act as an independent data variable, ensuring precise data analysis.
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of setting up and utilizing Matrix questions effectively on the Chisquares platform.

Features of Matrix Questions in Chisquares

• Question Setup: Input stems and corresponding answer choices, similar to Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs).
• Row-Specific Labels: Each row has a distinct label, ensuring data integrity and clarity.
• Customizable Column and Row Limits: Up to 9 columns and 12 rows can be added per Matrix question.
• Multimedia Inclusion: Ability to add images, videos, and audio to enhance the question setup.
• Flexible Response Selection: Choose between radio buttons (single response) or checkboxes (multiple responses).

Use Cases

The Matrix Question is ideal for collecting structured data across multiple related statements using a unified response scale. This format streamlines the experience for both respondents and researchers, especially when the same response options apply across several items. It reduces redundancy while maintaining consistency in measurement.

Common use cases include:

• Attitudinal Surveys: Capture agreement or disagreement across a set of related beliefs or opinions.
  Example: “Please indicate the extent to which you agree or disagree with the following statements about the philosophy of 'YOLO'.”

• Customer or Employee Feedback: Evaluate multiple service attributes or job satisfaction elements at once.
  Example: “How would you rate the following aspects of our service?”

• Performance Reviews: Assess different competencies using the same rating scale.
  Example: “Please rate the following skills for your team lead.”

• Educational Assessments: Evaluate several learning outcomes or course features using a common scale.
  Example: “Rate your level of understanding of the following topics.”

When to Use Matrix Questions

Use Matrix Questions when:

• You want to collect feedback on multiple items using the same scale for consistency.
• Your goal is to reduce survey length and visual clutter by consolidating questions.
• The items being evaluated are conceptually related, making it easier for respondents to process and compare.
• You’re conducting quantitative analysis that benefits from standardized response formats.
• You need to balance efficiency and structure, especially in professional or academic surveys.

Scenario-Based Example
In a behavioral study, a Matrix question might ask:

“Please indicate the extent to which you agree or disagree with the following statements about the philosophy of 'YOLO' (You Only Live Once).”
This enables structured analysis across multiple dimensions of the same theme without overwhelming the participant.

Basic Setup

1. Enter Question

• Type your question using the rich-text editor (bold, italics, hyperlinks, etc.).

2. Add Answer Options

• Enter row items (question stems) in the Row Items field.
• Assign a unique label to each row.
• Define the column headers (answer choices).
• The system automatically prevents exceeding the 9-column and 12-row limits.

4. Mark as Required (Optional)

• Toggle “Required” to make it mandatory.

5. Add Media (Optional)

• Upload an image, video, or audio file (max 4MB) to support the question prompt.

Answer Preference

Users can define how responses are collected:

• One option per row (Radio Buttons): Allow selection of one option per row.
• Multiple options per row (Checkboxes): Allow selection of multiple options per row.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Create a New Question
To begin creating a Matrix Question:

1. Log into your Chisquares Investigator Portal.
2. Navigate to the Survey Design section.
3. Click on the Create a New Question button.

Step 2: Select the Question Type

1. In the question type section, select Grid Questions.
2. Choose Matrix.
3. Click Use selected questionnaire item.

Step 3: Add Your Question

1. After selecting the Matrix question type, you will be prompted to add your question. Enter your question in the provided text box.
   Example: Please indicate the extent to which you agree or disagree with the following statements about the philosophy of 'YOLO' (You Only Live Once).
2. Apply formatting using the toolbar.

Step 4: Add the responses

1. Type each row item.
2. Assign a unique label to each row.
3. Define Column Headers
4. Input the set of fixed response options.

Step 5: Make the Question Required (Optional)
If you want to require participants to answer this question, toggle the Required switch at the top-right of the panel. This ensures respondents cannot proceed without answering the question.

Step 6: Add Media (Optional)
You can upload media (images, videos, or audio files) to accompany the question. Here’s how:

1. Click the paperclip icon at the top-right of the panel.
2. Upload your media file (must be under 4MB).
3. Once uploaded, choose the alignment for the media (left, right, or center). The default text overlay will say, “View the media below, then answer the following question.”

Preview Mode

Before finalizing the Matrix question setup, it’s important to preview how it will appear to participants.

1. Click the Preview button to see the question as participants will view it.
2. Make sure all options, media, and settings look as expected.

Final Step: Push to Questionnaire

Once you are satisfied with your Matrix setup:

1. Click Push to Questionnaire to add the question to your live survey.
2. If you need to make edits later, you can always return to the question editor to make changes.

Example Question Setup

Question: Please indicate the extent to which you agree or disagree with the following statements about the philosophy of 'YOLO' (You Only Live Once).

Statement	Strongly Disagree	Somewhat Disagree	Neutral	Somewhat Agree	Strongly Agree
Encourages living life fully	⭕	⭕	⭕	⭕	⭕
Promotes impulsive decisions	⭕	⭕	⭕	⭕	⭕
Inspires taking more risks	⭕	⭕	⭕	⭕	⭕
Reminds to focus on what matters most	⭕	⭕	⭕	⭕	⭕

Configuration Settings:

• Response Type: Radio Buttons (Single response per row)
• Row Limit: 4 items
• Column Limit: 5 response options
• Required: No
• Media Attached: No
• Section Header & Footer Prompt: Optional

Matrix Question Added

Matrix Question Pushed Preview

Matrix Question Appearance on the Participant Portal

Value Proposition on the Chisquares Platform

Chisquares makes Matrix questions both flexible and powerful with a wide range of configuration options that enhance both usability and data integrity.

Key platform-specific advantages include:

• Dynamic Grid Configuration: Add up to 12 rows and 9 columns, each row acting as an independent data variable.
• Custom Row & Column Labels: Assign descriptive titles and unique labels to each row and column for streamlined analysis.
• Response Selection Modes: Choose between radio buttons (single response per row) or checkboxes (multiple responses per row) for added flexibility.
• Multimedia Integration: Add supporting images, audio, or video to increase engagement or clarify questions.
• Required Toggle: Ensure data completeness by making matrix responses mandatory.
• Consistent Data Structuring: Each row’s response is tracked as a separate field, ideal for clean exports and statistical analysis.
• Preview Functionality: View how the matrix will appear to participants before publishing.

Chisquares empowers users to create compact, data-rich questions that maintain respondent engagement and support scalable data collection in a professional format.

Conclusion

The Matrix question type on Chisquares is a powerful tool for gathering structured responses efficiently. By offering customizable rows, column limits, multimedia integration, and multiple response selection options, researchers can create effective and data-rich surveys.

To watch a video of this question being set up, click the link below: link