How to choose a WELL survey provider – eight questions to ask

Using an approved provider is the simplest way to meet the occupant survey requirement in WELL. IWBI keeps a public list of pre-approved survey programs, and every provider on it can deliver a survey that is accepted for certification.

But the providers differ in where they are based, how they handle data, which languages they support and how much help you get with the results. The right choice depends on your project.

These are the eight questions we recommend asking.

1. Is the provider on IWBI’s list?

Start by checking IWBI’s list of pre-approved programs. If a provider is listed, the survey method is already accepted, which makes documentation easier for the WELL AP.

2. Where is the data stored, and is it GDPR-compliant?

For projects in Europe this is often the deciding question. Occupant surveys collect personal views about the workplace, and in the EU that data falls under GDPR. Ask where responses are stored, who can access them and how anonymity is protected. Many of the listed providers are based in the United States.

3. Which WELL features does the survey cover?

Check whether the provider covers both C04 Occupant Survey and C05 Enhanced Occupant Survey, and which topics are included. A survey that also covers wellbeing and organisational experience gives more value beyond the certification.

4. Which languages can the survey run in?

International offices need the survey in the languages people actually work in. Ask which languages are included and what extra languages cost.

5. How long does it take?

A typical timeline is 3–6 weeks from set-up to final report. Make sure the provider’s timeline fits your certification schedule, and ask how they support response rates during the survey period.

6. What do you get back?

Ask for an example report. Good reporting gives you both the documentation input the WELL AP needs and insights the organisation can act on, for example results broken down by area or group, with anonymity protected.

7. Is the price clear?

Prices are often based on the number of occupants. Ask for a fixed price, and check what is included: set-up, reminders, analysis, documentation support and follow-up surveys.

8. Can they support you after the survey?

WELL work continues after certification. Ask whether the provider can run follow-up surveys, support recertification and help turn the results into an action plan, for example through a leadership presentation or workshop.

A short checklist

• Listed on IWBI’s pre-approved programs
• GDPR-compliant, with clear information on data storage and anonymity
• Covers C04 and, if needed, C05
• Runs in the languages you need
• Fits your timeline
• Provides an example report
• Has a clear, fixed price
• Offers follow-up and recertification support

About Aumla

Aumla is an Approved WELL Survey Provider based in Stockholm, working with WELL projects across Europe. We run C04 and C05 surveys with GDPR-compliant data handling, fixed prices and insight reports that help organisations act on the results. See our WELL Occupant Survey service and pricing.