Introduction to market, social and opinion research

If you are interested in finding out what market, social or opinion research is and the different research methods used A Newcomers’ Guide to Market and Social Research (PDF 165KB, PDF Help) will provide a useful starting point. This document is extracted from the Research Buyer’s Guide, published by MRS, which is a directory of research providers and support services.

If you have a query, eg on market research techniques, finding research or statistical data, finding an agency etc, visit the Frequently Asked Questions page.

The Media Information section includes a number of articles on market research use and techniques, eg market research as a business tool, online market research and opinion polling.

If you want to find out what a term means check the general glossary. The Association for Qualitative Research produces a glossary of terms used in qualitative research (www.aqr.org.uk/glossary/index.shtml).

Agencies, consultants and viewing facilities

Selecting the right market research agency is an important part of the research process. The Newcomers’ Guide (PDF 165KB, PDF Help) gives guidance on how to choose the right agency.

The Research Buyer’s Guide, published by MRS, is a directory of over 600 entries offering market research throughout the UK and Republic of Ireland. It includes details of research markets, services, locations, senior contacts and an overview of each organisation’s activities. Research buyers can use RBG-listed suppliers confident in the knowledge that they employ at least one MRS member who ensures compliance with the MRS Code of Conduct.

The Research Buyer’s Guide can be searched online at www.theresearchbuyersguide.com. As well as searchable up-to-date listings, the website also offers a Bulletin Board to display potential research projects. There is no charge for using the online directory.

Quick Links

MRS Research Portal – for MRS members and employees at MRS Company Partners

Harmonisation resources: standard questions etc

Guidance documents on conducting research

Census and other statistical data

Social grade (‘ABC1’) –
– dictionary of grades
– Census and other data

Ethnic research

Employee research

Need to find an agency, consultant or viewing facility? use The Research Buyer’s Guide online

Research-Live for news and jobs

Careers Information

Student placements

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