Here are some excerpts from a couple of articles featured in Insight2 Breakthrough Innovation newsletter:

Food for Thought: Are you using the best research for the job?

Quantitative Research

This type of research is typically done in the form of a survey.  It could be done over the phone, over the internet or face to face.  This typically involves large numbers of respondents so that it will be “statistically significant” (this is a mathematical term that suggests that you need to study a given percentage of your desired population to ensure that your findings represent the whole).  The method of data collection can depend on the project.  If you need to have people interact with a physical product, have them taste something, (or some other sensory feedback), then you would need to do face to face research.  You have probably seen people in public places (like malls) holding clipboards, looking for people that appear to fit their desired demographic.

Virtual Focus Groups: A new approach to traditional research

Online focus groups are becoming an increasingly popular offering among our clients.  These groups can be attended from the comfort of your office or home and eliminate costs and time associated with travel for your team.  Online groups utilize a bulletin board platform where researchers and participants interact in a discussion-like format.   Participants respond to questions from the moderator, as well as to comments (posts) from other participants.

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