Research services

As part of our wider offering, we have a full service market research capability. We have extensive experience of interpreting survey data either on its own or in the context of other information: adding value to survey data is an important part of our business. We specialise in business-to-business research but also have strong capabilities in the business-to-consumer markets - clients include high street banks, retailers, industrial companies and central and local government. We are affiliated members of the Market Research Society.

Sample and questionnaire design: our methodology and questionnaires are clear and relevant, ensuring maximum value for money. We can suggest sampling size and distributions for data and have access to specialist business and consumer listings.

Fieldwork: our in-house team of researchers works on projects from a few 100 responses through to over 2,000. For larger projects, we work with close contacts in the market research industry. For example, we conducted a survey of 12,000 interviews in Wales with Ipsos MORI, and a global survey of over 6,000 businesses using a network of market research companies.

Qualitative research: we run focus groups, workshops and in-depth interviews, using experts within the company as facilitators.

Weighting and standard analysis: our complex weighting frames ensure that data accurately represents the sample universe. We use statistics from numerous sources to fill the gaps in sources such as the Annual Business Inquiry, and to smooth any inherent sample biases.

Respondent feedback: providing feedback to respondents keeps response rates high. Our online benchmarking service allows respondents to compare themselves against their competitors and gain a valuable insight into the competitive environment.

Reporting: our regional, sectoral and survey specialists assess survey results in light of the wider environment, for example, economic, labour market, social trends, providing a synergy that would not normally exist with two separate agencies.

Analysis: We use survey data in many ways. For example, we use statistical techniques to find hidden meanings in survey results, and conjoint techniques to model price elasticities. We use survey results, external economic information and our own forecasts to provide bespoke tailored models and forecasts. Issues addressed include market sizing, demand forecasting, capacity planning and, more generally, the analysis and description of market structure and characteristics.