Survey Data Analysis

[ray7]

Hi everyone, I'm currently working on survey data analysis and I'm a bit confused about the differences between using weighting only versus an approach that incorporates both weighting and adjustments for complex sample design (e.g., accounting for stratification and clustering). Could someone explain what the overall impact is on the analysis results when using each method? Thanks in advance for your help!

[SAS_Rob]

In general, the difference will be in the manner in which the variances are computed.  Complex survey data uses methodology that adjusts for the design (cluster and strata) effect.  Data that is merely weighted will use the usual formulations for weighted variances.