Accurate, timely, cost-effective - all our data collection methods must meet these standards. There is no one avenue for data collection, as emerging technologies continue to provide new and exciting approaches to research. At Harman Atchison, all methodologies are considered and utilized, from the more traditional, time-tested data collection techniques to the latest, developing technologies.

Our data collection capabilities include…

     Telephone
     Internet Surveys
     Pre-Recruited CLT
     On-Site
     Mall Intercepts
     Totally Automated Telephone Interviewing (TATI)
     Hybrid

Telephone
The majority of our projects are telephone interviews, conducted from a fully monitored central telephone center. Interviewing is typically enhanced by a Computer Assisted Telephone Interviewing system (CATI), which automatically controls the sample, quotas and skip patterns. The CATI system allows the interviewer to concentrate on the respondent rather than technical interview issues, and it improves both the accuracy and cost-effectiveness of the interview.

Internet Surveys
Internet interviewing is the fastest growing method of data collection, and Harman Atchison Research fully utilizes these techniques, fielding Internet studies that include brand image testing and concept testing involving ads or product shots. We partner with Greenfield Online, the pioneer of Internet survey execution. This association combines our research expertise with access to their panel of 3 million households and data collection services.

Pre-Recruited Central Location Tests
Pre-recruited Central Location Tests (PCLT) are often ideal for product testing situations. When testing involves perishable product, specialized kitchen equipment, a need for controlled product preparation, or when prototypes are expensive or limited, our clients have found PCLT to be a useful data collection methodology.

We are experienced in all facets of PCLT - from locating quality test facilities nationwide and coordinating product logistics to the administration of complex test designs.

On-Site
Obtaining immediate consumer reaction to a specific experience sometimes provides the most meaningful information. We frequently conduct multi-unit, multi-market on-site interviewing. We have developed not only an extensive network of local field services, but a well-deserved reputation for getting the project completed quickly, even in remote and challenging locations and markets.

Mall Intercepts
Mall intercepts provide an excellent means of data collection for studies that include stimulus or reaction materials (such as concept boards, advertising materials, product prototypes, logo designs, brand names, etc.) The one-on-one interview format can also add insight and more actionable responses to open-ended questions through detailed probing and clarification.

Harman Atchison maintains a network of pre-approved mall locations across the country. We are known for our ability to field studies quickly, even in multiple markets, while maintaining the highest quality standards.

Totally Automated Telephone Interviewing (TATI)
Totally Automated Telephone Interviewing (TATI) combines Interactive Voice Response (IVR) capabilities with sophisticated inbound telephone interviewing capabilities.

Respondents are invited to participate by calling a toll-free number. The "interviewer" they hear is a digitized voice, prompting responses which are entered numerically on the telephone. Even open-ended responses can be digitized for later transcription, coding or transfer to audiotapes.

TATI provides an economical research method for studies with relatively short questionnaires and large sample sizes, such as customer satisfaction studies. Our TATI partnership is with PinPoint Research, an industry leader in TATI capability and a vendor that shares our emphasis on research quality.

Hybrid
Recent technologies make it possible to combine multiple data collection methods. Hybrid methodologies might include combinations of telephone, Internet and TATI interviewing. While hybrid methodologies are generally not recommended, increasing data collection costs, decreasing response rates and advances in data collection technologies are making hybrid methods unavoidable.

The risks associated with mixing data collection methods can be minimized through proper planning and carefully constructing questionnaires to be method "neutral." We can show you how this is done and advise you on the risk/reward factors for your situation.