ARS | Publication request: Pilot survey results to prioritize research needs in the watermelon industry

Submitted to: Cucurbit Genetics Cooperative Report
Publication Type: Trade Journal
Publication Acceptance Date: June 6, 2007
Publication Date: December 3, 2007
Citation: King, S., Davis, A.R. 2007. Pilot survey results to prioritize research needs in the watermelon industry. Cucurbit Genetics Cooperative Report. 28-29:43-46(2005-2006).

Interpretive Summary: It is useful for researchers to survey their clientele to monitor for new developments and make sure their research is focused on major problems. A discussion at the Watermelon Research and Development Working Group meeting (2006) led to the development of a survey to solicit responses from the watermelon industry. The survey was a list of questions with categories. An initial survey was developed for feedback on the survey style and legibility. The finalized survey form was simplified and is demonstrated in the manuscript with a request for feedback from industry personnel.

Technical Abstract: It is useful for researchers of any commodity to occasionally survey their clientele to monitor for new developments and make sure their research is focused on major problems. A discussion at the Watermelon Research and Development Working Group meeting in Asheville, NC (2006) led to the development of a survey to solicit responses from a cross section of the watermelon industry. The survey was a list of closed-ended questions with ordered response categories. A pilot survey was developed to get feedback on the survey style and legibility. The finalized survey form was simplified and is demonstrated in the manuscript with a request for feedback from industry personnel.