Proven Methodologies


STUDY DESIGN  -  DATA GATHERING  -  DATA PRESENTATION



Data Gathering

Once we’ve achieved alignment around your study objectives, the sample selection, questionnaire, and overall timeline, we’re ready to hit the road running. As we move through the following steps, we submit informal weekly progress reports. Focus Data undertakes research on a global scale. We have developed expertise in gathering solid quantitative as well qualitative data using all the available forms of data collection to reach project objectives – telephone or web based surveys.

There are definitely advantages and disadvantages to each research methodology. Therefore, based on our clients’ needs we determine which methodology would be the most efficient, cost effective and timely.

Focus Data’s experienced staff possesses industry-leading expertise in the all aspects of market research services. Our mission is to compliment your own internal resources, thereby become an extension of your department. Depending on your needs for each project, you can decide which tasks you prefer to outsource vs performing in-house.



Telephone Studies

First, we consult our proprietary database of approximately 10,000 decision makers at end user organizations. From this qualified, pre-screened list, we select the individuals who have responsibility for the specific areas you’re concerned about. Should your study require it, we can consult list brokers to attain additional qualified participants in a timely manner.

Designing an effective questionnaire, asking the right questions in the right sequence to the right respondents is critical to obtain solid data to make strategic decisions. We, as your research arm, work closely to fully understand your primary and secondary objectives.

Prior to the formal interviewing, we run a pre-test, which helps us identify and modify any areas that prove to be ambiguous or confusing to study respondents. Upon completion of the pre-test, we make constructive suggestions, revise the draft as needed, and submit the updated questionnaire to you for approval.

Next, as specialists in telephone research, we start gathering information directly from the decision makers who are appropriate to your study. We interview the right people at the right time, we ask the right questions and get solid answers. Our staff members are highly trained in the computer-assisted telephone interviewing (CATI) method, which enables us to quickly, effectively, and accurately conduct interviews.

In self-administered web surveys, it is not uncommon for respondents to misidentify their industry, job title, job function, or global revenue. For example a manufacturer of communications equipment may identify themselves as a communication vendor and not a manufacturer. Or a government contractor may identify themselves a government agency, or a university hospital may identify themselves educational rather than medical. Telephone methodology ensures proper identification thereby providing valid quotas.

We pride ourselves on having the highest caliber telephone interviewers with in-depth experience in both quantitative and qualitative interviewing techniques in the technology area. Our staff is fully trained and have gained solid expertise, averaging 13 years of interviewing experience, in gathering pertinent information directly from IT and business key decision makers.

Our interviewers are trained to make each telephone conversation sound well-organized, conversational and thoughtful, but not rehearsed - It is very easy to tell if the interviewer is reading.

Additionally, to successfully complete each study. We, at Focus Data:

  • Focus on the content of each question.
  • Ask the questions in the right sequence.
  • Base the length of interview on the topic and level of respondents.
  • Combine qualitative and quantitative questions as needed.
  • Skip non-applicable questions.



Web Surveys

Web-based interviewing capability uses SSL encryption to ensure total confidentiality and security. Our application ensures total control by enabling us to:

  • Create surveys with an unlimited number of questions.
  • Customize the path a respondent takes through your survey.
  • Eliminate non-applicable questions.
  • Ensure that you receive a response to essential questions.
  • Randomize Answer Choice to help to eliminate order bias.
  • Add your logo (if desired to the number of responses).
  • Customize every element of your survey: fonts, sizes, and colors.
  • Filter results to help find patterns in your results.
  • Enable you to have access to the data 24 hours a day.
  • Download the gathered information for further analysis.
  • Set specific timeframe – date and time for each study.
  • Allow only one response per respondent.
  • Create a password to restrict access to your survey results.



To learn more about Focus Data’s research services, please request a proposal, or contact Mona Dabbon at O-508.303.3400 M-508.397.8176 or email mdabbon@focusdata.com