Versta Research Post

Sampling for Concept Testing and Innovation

Many assume that rigorous market research always works with random samples or probability samples.  This assumption is not true.  There are many studies that require purposive sampling instead.  Purposive sampling involves finding people with specific characteristics or qualities, even if they do not fully represent the whole population, because these specific people can provide unique…

Versta Research Post

Genetics Affect Whether You Take Surveys

Despite having been on the front lines of social research for twenty five years, interviewing respondents personally and eliciting data through surveys, I still feel somewhat surprised and disbelieving that people really want to participate in research.  But they do.  Sometimes eagerly.  Almost always truthfully.  Surely, my surprise stems from my own reluctance to fill…

Versta Research Post

Why You Need a Partisan Pollster

In an op-ed column two days ago, Stuart Rothenberg, a prominent political (and non-partisan) commentator argued that partisan pollsters (those who work directly for either Democratic or Republican candidates) do a better job than presumably objective third party pollsters.  Why?  Because they have to get it right.  Their campaign strategies depend on it.  Quoting Mr.…

Versta Research Post

Who Are Your Anonymous Respondents?

We feel strongly that people who give us information through surveys, in-depth interviews, or focus group deserve a promise that this will never happen to them: One of the tenets of rigorous market research is that respondent confidentiality is key.  Why?  Primarily because it benefits you as a client.  To make smart decisions, you need…

Versta Research Post

Optimize Your PR—Don’t Do Silly Surveys

We are strong advocates of using surveys for public relations outreach.  Commissioning surveys that answer interesting questions to help drive news stories and other types of communication can build a credible foundation so that journalists and other audiences take note and listen.  But we are not fans of silly surveys that rely on outlandish, sexy,…