Methodology

A comprehensive ABS approach, paired with an administration protocol that begins with mail contact and includes effective phone follow-up to convert refusals and encourage online survey participation, is arguably the most promising method for 
small area surveys. 

Given the importance of nonresponse follow-up, especially via cellphones, one can increase the overall response rates by factors of two or even three. In addition, they tend to secure more of the hard-to-reach cohorts, such as young adults and minority subgroups who may not be reachable by the initial mailout.