Introduction

The information society is characterized by the continuous flow of data and the growing need for its collection, analysis, and utilization. In this context, online research has acquired particular importance, as it allows researchers, businesses, and organizations to quickly and efficiently gather information from broad or specialized population groups. At the same time, the development and provision of open data are fundamental prerequisites for transparency, innovation, and economic growth. The connection between these two fields—online research and open data—creates a new dynamic that plays a decisive role in shaping contemporary policies and strategic choices.

Evolution of Research Methods

The historical course of research methods reflects the constant pursuit of faster and more reliable ways of collecting data. In the past, quantitative research was carried out through the distribution of questionnaires by post or by conducting in-person interviews at home. Later, telephone interviews became a common practice, offering greater ease in reaching respondents. Today, the use of the internet has largely replaced earlier methods, providing a mode of research that reduces costs, saves time, and minimizes the errors often observed in traditional approaches.

Types of Online Research

Online research is conducted in two main ways, either by sending questionnaires through email or by using web applications. In the first case, the questionnaire can be sent as a simple message, embedded in HTML, or as an attached file. In the second case, the questionnaire is posted on a website and shared via a link distributed by email or through forums, social networks, and webpages. Applications that support online surveys offer multiple features, such as defining a title and survey dates, selecting a visual template, creating and customizing questionnaires with images or videos, providing preview options, and applying skip logic that directs respondents to different questions based on their answers. Additionally, responses are automatically stored in databases, while the data can be exported in formats suitable for further analysis, such as Excel, SPSS, or csv.

Advantages of Online Research

The use of the internet for conducting research presents many advantages. First, resources are saved, both financial and human, while errors in data entry are significantly reduced, since respondents themselves input their answers. The speed at which responses are collected and stored is noteworthy, offering researchers immediate access to large volumes of data. It is also easy to locate individuals with specific interests through online communities, and this method is particularly appealing to younger age groups who use computers and the internet daily. Flexibility in terms of time and place of completing questionnaires makes participation more convenient, while access to geographically dispersed populations broadens the scope of research and allows communication with an international audience.

Disadvantages of Online Research

Despite its advantages, online research also presents significant limitations. One of the main problems is the difficulty in establishing a random sample and, consequently, the representativeness of the results may be questioned. Response rates are often lower compared to traditional methods, while technical problems may arise, affecting the smooth progress of the survey. The absence of personal contact between researcher and respondent reduces immediacy and the ability to probe deeper into responses, while issues of security and protection of personal data must also be carefully considered.

Open Data and Online Research

The value of online research becomes even greater when connected to the promotion and dissemination of open data. Open data consists of information collected or controlled by the public sector, such as geographic data, environmental records, meteorological measurements, or traffic statistics, and is freely available for use and reuse by citizens, businesses, and organizations. In everyday life, applications such as navigation systems or public transport schedules are based on open data.

A notable example of this connection is the European project HOMER-MED, in which the Free Software / Open Source Software Society (GFOSS) participates. This project aims to strengthen accessibility and the reuse of public data in Mediterranean countries, focusing on five key sectors: agriculture, tourism, environment, energy, and culture. Within the framework of the project, GFOSS conducted online research inviting citizens and stakeholders, particularly from regions such as Attica and Crete, to complete questionnaires regarding the impact of open data on the economy and society. Public participation in this research was considered crucial for prioritizing which data sets should be made available first, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of actions in favor of transparency and innovation.

The Strategic Importance of Participation

Public participation in online research is not simply a formal procedure but an element of strategic importance. Through the collection of opinions and experiences of citizens and organizations, priorities are set, needs are highlighted, and policies are shaped that promote transparency and participation. Online research, when linked with open data, is not only a tool for gathering information but also a means of democratic engagement that strengthens citizens’ trust in public administration.

Conclusions

In conclusion, online research is a powerful data collection tool in the modern era, offering speed, flexibility, and access to an international audience. At the same time, its connection with open data demonstrates that it is not merely an alternative method of collecting information, but a fundamental pillar supporting transparency, innovation, and economic growth. Despite its weaknesses, such as problems of representativeness or security issues, online research continues to gain ground, as it has become an integral part of the information society and contributes actively to the design of policies and strategies that respond to the needs of the contemporary world.