This is the second article in a three-part series on collecting and using data to assess your school and advance your school’s strategic initiatives. The first article dealt with how to build a “culture of data” in independent schools,* where decisions have traditionally been based on anecdotes, the vocal minority, past events, or instinct. Now that you have articulated your objectives, outlined the necessary tasks, and identified all the sources of data available internally (discipline records, health records, testing, etc.) that contribute to the overall picture of your school, the next step is to collect data from your various constituents. Surveys are one of the most practical and efficient data collection methods. Proper survey methodology is crucial for success; mistakes made in the design, implementation, or analysis of surveys can lead to inaccurate data and discontent among your constituent groups. There are many factors to consider when launching your survey program.