Information technology has gradually taken over our lives. survey software has revolutionized survey methods, allowing surveys to be done for less cost, time and effort. From beginning to end, survey software is capable of doing all that can be thought of. It helps design questions, set answer choices, collects results and analyses them in numerous ways. With software like this in hand, newer ways of dispatching survey and collecting results are also being explored.

Online survey software is one of the fastest methods developed to deploy a survey. A further enhancement to this is email survey software, which is completely email supported. It has all technical features of Survey software: drop down boxes, color, font, the option to make questions mandatory, and the ability to create questionnaires and analyze results. Unlike online survey software, it does not require a web server to implement a survey. The survey, which is in HTML format, is received by respondents as a MIME encoded email or as an attachment. When the filled survey is submitted, it passes through a Compressweb Formmail gateway. The gateway composes a new email message, which is then sent back to the questionnaire sender. An emailing engine tracks responses and sends reminder emails. Documents, graphic and sound files can also be attached along with the survey for feedback from respondents.

The survey can be dispatched by various methods. A URL can be emailed to respondents and posted on a website. Survey popups can be added to existing websites and configured to reach users only once. HTML formats can also be created to add a survey to e-newsletters. The email survey software sends out blank surveys and receives completed ones through email. There is more saving on time, as this system rejects duplicated or forwarded mails. Emails are accepted from only those who have been selected. The system frequently checks the POP3 server or Outlook Express (whichever applicable) for survey replies and stores them.

Like all other forms of survey software, different versions of email survey software are available online with many vendors. Simplest versions with less features are available for trial at minimal or no charges. Advanced versions are available only with full payment options.