GA Research uses the following research methodologies:
Qualitative Research
Qualitative research is an exploratory research methodology based on small samples that provides insights and understanding of the topic in considerable depth. It helps to narrow down the issue and put it in context.
Focus groups
A focus group consists of an informal discussion of a particular topic with a small number of selected participants (usually 8-9). The discussion is guided by a skilled moderator who does not influence the outcome, but ensures that all the subject areas are discussed by the group and the views of the participants are as clear as possible
Online focus groups
Focus groups conducted online in real time or over several days – the latter are sometimes known as discussion boards
Mini-groups
These are like focus groups but with only four to six participants
One-on-one depth interviews
A depth interview is an unstructured personal interview with a single respondent conducted by a highly skilled interviewer to uncover underlying motivations, beliefs, attitudes and feelings on a particular subject
Dyads and triads
This is similar to a one-on-one interview but with two or three respondents instead of the usual one
Interchange Workshops
Two-way, extended workshops, where client representatives view a facilitated stakeholder discussion, the stakeholders then view a client discussion followed by two groups coming together for a combined workshop and open discussion
Deliberative Forums
Intensive sessions with larger groups of 20+ people, for addressing complex issues; allows for collection of both qualitative and quantitative data
iModerate
Qualitative instant message chats as part of a quantitative online survey
Eye-Tracking
Tracking eye movements to test websites and print publications
Delphi Sessions
Facilitated workshops with specialists and thought-leaders
Ethnographic studies
In-situ research where attitudes and behaviours are studied and interpreted in real-life environments
Quantitative Research
Quantitative research involves the collection of statistically large samples of quantitative data, and usually some form of quantitative analysis. It is often used to substantiate the findings from qualitative research.
CATI telephone polling
This is the standard method used to conduct telephone interviews with large dispersed samples. It involves computer-assisted telephone interviewing where responses are keyed directly into a computer and administration of the interview is managed by a specifically designed program. The program checks for invalid responses and will not accept responses outside prescribed limits, hence subsequent editing and keying in of data is avoided.
Online surveys
A cost-effective and flexible option where email addresses are available or panels are used, also useful when more complex questions or audio visual stimuli need to be used - these can incorporate qualitative probing through iModerate
Intercept interviews
Face-to-face interviewing with representative survey samples
Face-to-Face Pre-Recruited Research
Used for more complex quantitative research such as choice modelling and communications testing
Other Methodologies
Desk Research
Literature reviews or additional analysis of existing data
Mapping
Using specialist mapping software to analyse data by various geographies
Specialised Panels
Establishing and managing dedicated research panels with customers, consumers and citizens, for both qualitative and quantitative research and longitudinal consultation and tracking |
