The creation of a user defined variable makes it possible to change and add the variables in the analysis. Furthermore it's possible to add variables to the respondent, even after the survey has been launched or closed. This is done by creating a user defined variable.
It is important to note that to use the background variables you have imported via your csv file, first you have to transform/rename them as user defined variables. This also applies for the background variable BV: 1: Launch. To create these variables, you must create a variable by using an existing variable.
There are two ways to create a user defined variable:
1. Create a user defined variable
It can be relevant, in several situations, to create a new user defined variable. For example, if you are doing a Human Resources survey and forgot to add department as a background variable (BV). Here you can use the e-mail adresses/passwords to add respondents to the variable. So if you have forgotten one or more background variables this is the procedure to follow.
1. Go to the Variables menu, under the Analysis tab, and click on the Add button. A new window will open.
Name: Name the user defined variable. For example, UDV (User Defined Variable): Department.
Method: In the drop down menu select Create as an empty variable
Response Options: Add Response options, e.g. department A, department B and department C. Separate each response option by pressing ENTER.
2. Click OK to create the new user defined variable.
3. You can now add data (respondents) to the newly created variable.
2. Create a user defined variable based on an existing variable
1. Go to the Variables menu, under the Analysis tab, and click on the Add button. A new window will open.
Name: Name the user defined variable. For example, UDV (User Defined Variable): Launch.
Method: In the drop down menu select Create based on an existing variable.
Response Options: When you select this method the following text will appear in the response option field: It is not possible to provide response options for the new variable when it is to be based on an existing variable. The response options for the new variable will be auto generated.
2. Click OK and you will be directed to the next window.
Choose variable: Select the variable you wish to transform/rename, e.g. BV 1 (Background Variable 1): Launch
Keep synchronized on launch: Select this option if you wish to use the user defined variable in future launches. We advise that you do this.
2. Here you have to choose the variable that you wish to transform/rename, e.g. BV.1 (Background Variable 1): Launch.
3. Click OK to continue. You have now transformed/renamed the BV (Background Variable): Launch to UDV (User defined variable): Launch. The variable can now be used to filter your reports and to create cross tables.
Comments