Social Scientific Research is the name for a scientifically valid research methodology applied in a controlled environment to produce accurate, measurable, and valid data on a subject. It is a synthesis science of research techniques, web development, electronic data capture, and statistical analysis.

Electronic survey distribution can be accomplished using either a centralized or decentralized (i.e. distributed) approach and can employ both vertical or horizontal collection tools. These can be used to answer questions such as who needs what information, how frequently is it used, is it available, what information is valued most highly, what information needs are shared across the organization, and what needs are unique. The responses and report results in comparison to historical data, function, organizational group, performance dimension and benchmarks can then yield organizational knowledge.