Using Surveys to Assess Core Needs

Assessment of core needs and collecting client feedback is key to tailoring core development to support the research of your clientele. To determine our user's needs we have developed surveys at the technical and customer service level. For our flow cytometry core our technical surveys have established a change in the need for greater than 6 color cytometry from 17.3% of users surveyed in 2012 to 50% of users surveyed in 2013. Comparison with usage of instrumentation confirmed and strengthened this need. Furthermore, by assessing which fluors/lasers are the most highly utilized by our clients, these statistics can be used for requesting instrumentation with the appropriate capabilities to meet user demand and can aid in tailoring educational initiatives. On the customer service level, we also have monitored the satisfaction of our clients with our services and have acted appropriately to maintain successful programs and address deficiencies.