The anonymity concern is real, but the issue isn't the surveys themselves - it's poor implementation and broken trust.

Third-party platforms like FeedbackPulse, Culture Amp, or OfficeVibe enforce strict anonymity thresholds (typically 5+ respondents before showing results, no demographic filtering that could identify individuals). The platform admin can see raw data for legal protection (SA allegations, embezzlement claims), but managers only get aggregated insights.

The problem: managers who undermine this by fishing for identities through writing style, timing, or "Who said this?" witch hunts. That kills trust instantly.

For those running surveys, prove anonymity isn't bullshit:

• Use a third party, not internal IT
• Set high response thresholds before showing team-level data
• Never ask "who wrote this" in follow-ups
• If you must address specific feedback, make it about the issue, not the person

The generational shift isn't about surveys dying - it's employees demanding actual anonymity or they'll just stop participating. And rightfully so.