+–Why Online?
At Research Interactive, we’re not averse to using traditional methodologies. However, we tend to favour online research with the key benefits being:

  • Speed (N=1,000+ collected overnight)
  • Reach (Over 70 markets covered)
  • Cost (Cost savings compared to many traditional, offline approached)

With over 15 years’ experience in providing online solutions and working with leading edge partners, we are able to provide ‘Quality’ research as opposed to ‘Cheaper and faster’ research than traditional approaches.

Our approach to quality is evident in all stages of the project process – from project design, sampling, and fieldwork right through to analysis and reporting.

+–How do I select an online fieldwork company?
Having sourced sample for many years, we have built a preferred supplier network based. We know the best panels by region/ market and sector. In a crowded market, there are too few online panel companies that actually deliver on their promises. Our supplier network has been compiled by actually running studies in these markets. We work with partners who have a track record in delivering fieldwork and not simply by the numbers stated within their panel book – which is usually between 25-35% of the figures actually stated.
+–In which countries can you do research online?
Well, the simple answer is anywhere where internet access is good enough (usually, where Internet penetration is above 10%). As we are not tied to any one supplier, we are able to source our sample from the best local providers out there. Currently, through our preferred network of local partners, we can offer online sample in over 72 markets and have a reach of over 10 million plus. Our reach is continually growing so if please do get in touch to find out our latest capabilities.
+–How do you ensure High Data Quality?

Through our years of experience sourcing sample, we use our preferred and fully vetted network of partners. All have procedures in place that satisfy the strictest of requirements in terms of sampling sources, frequency/ usage of the panellists, screening/ information held about each unique panellist along with the actual maintenance of the panel (regularly purging of the panel database for non-participation, data quality fails, etc.).
We script in a way that keeps our panellists engaged. Our surveys are scripted with the panellist in mind, making them as aesthetically pleasing as possible. We cut-out long, cumbersome grids and replace them with flash based alternatives. We tend not to run any surveys over 25 minutes in length, as tests have shown that respondents attention drops, thus possibly affecting data quality.

We also believe that overall, data quality in online surveys can indeed be better than other traditional methods. This is partially to do with there being no interviewer bias. The questions appear exactly as they are intended to all respondents, allowing them to form their own opinions. Indeed, when looking through the data from open ended questions, our clients have said that the data is far richer and more descriptive than that from other offline methodologies. The respondents tend to “Open up”; giving comments, ideas and suggestions on a whole host of things they may not have even been asked. In addition, respondents are far more open to giving their views on personal matters/ sensitive topic matters – as they feel more anonymous behind their PC.

+–Should I think about Social Media Research?

Social Media is here to stay. As such, more and more companies are increasingly looking towards Social Media Research and what they can do in this area. There is a range of different social media monitoring tools that can be used to track and identify what is being said and by whom. Some are better than others and the tools you use should be determined by your business objectives. We have access to various social networking opted in panels where we can speak to all types of social networking users.

+–Moving my research online? How can I be assured that the results will be valid and comparable?

Switching methodologies needs careful consideration and planning. While there are obvious benefits in moving online, we will work with our clients to ensure they are able to deliver against their objectives, when making the move across to a different methodology.

For tracking studies or continuous research, we would always suggest that we run parallel studies for a short period of time and carefully analyse the sampling procedure and results.