How and where do I do market research online for free?

When were online surveys introduced and how long did it take before it was a commonly accepted method for doing market research?

• And how did that correlate with the penetration of internet?

• Answer:

  For the most part online surveys really got started in the very late '90's and early 2000's. I had used some during the early and mid 90's but nothing like what came to be today. Back in the day you had very few options, customization wasn't even on the radar, and reporting was rudimentary at best. Depending on who you are talking to, I'd say they became the "commonly accepted' method over the last 5 years or so. I think the correlation would be more along the lines with the penetration of social media and the rise of social networks.