Pilot Cluster Sampling — Feasibility Testing of Cluster Survey Designs

Pilot cluster sampling is the application of a cluster sampling protocol on a small, preliminary scale to evaluate the feasibility, logistics, and parameter estimates needed before committing to a full-scale cluster survey. A subset of clusters is randomly selected and fully surveyed, yielding estimates of the intraclass correlation (ICC), design effect, recruitment rates, and operational costs. These findings directly inform the sample size and cluster allocation of the definitive survey.