This option is used to alter the serial numbers of data stored. Do not use to move to a different serial number.
IMPORTANT: When working with a survey that uses verbatim questions it is very important not to use the "Change serial number" facility, unless you also modify the appropriate serial number(s) in the Comma Separated Value file (Verbatim CSV). This is because the "Change serial number" facility causes only the serial number used in the CBA or ASC Data file to be modified; QPSMR will NOT change the serial number(s) for verbatim comments stored in a CSV file. If you do not also modify the serial numbers in the CSV file, the verbatim answers from each respondent will no longer be tied back to their remaining responses held in the QPSMR Data file.
Selecting [Action] [Change serial on questionnaire] from the Data window, allows you to choose a new serial number for the questionnaire currently displayed at the screen.
After making this selection you will see a message, explaining the action you have requested.
At the "Change serial number" dialog box the "old serial number" (the one currently used for the questionnaire) is shown. To allocate a new number to the questionnaire you simply type the new number you wish to use (in place of the old number) in the "New serial number" box at the screen.
Note that when you type a new serial, QPSMR will not accept a number already held in the current Data file. If you try to use an existing serial number, a message is displayed and QPSMR will automatically show the next available serial number (which you can overtype if you wish).
TIP: the default serial number data location width is 5. If this default setting is not altered, the largest serial number permitted would be 99999.