the market research society (mrs)
London
Research, insight and analytics stand at the heart of all well-informed
commercial, social and political decisions. Insight into what makes a product,
business initiative or government policy work is often the hidden – yet defining
– factor between success and failure. It is our sector that provides the deeper
intelligence needed for our world today. Here is a definition of market and
social research from the MRS Code of Conduct. "Research is the collection, use,
or analysis of information about individuals or organisations intended to
establish facts, acquire knowledge or reach conclusions. It uses techniques of
the applied social, behavioural and data sciences, statistical principles and
theory, to generate insights and support decision-making by providers of goods
and services, governments, non-profit organisations and the general public." The
Market Research Society (MRS) is the UK professional body for research, insight
and analytics. We recognise 5,000 individual members and over 500 accredited
Company Partners in over 50 countries who are committed to delivering
outstanding insight. As the regulator, we promote the highest professional
standards throughout the sector via the MRS Code of Conduct. MRS supports the
sector with specialist training and qualifications, professional membership,
company accreditation, cutting-edge conferences, glittering awards and advice on
best practice. Professional development – Through qualifications, CPD,
mentoring, skills mapping and specialist training, we upskill individuals and
organisations within the sector. Thought leadership – We publish the
award-winning Impact magazine, provide 40 e-books and free webinars, as well as
the scholarly International Journal of Market Research (IJMR). We also run the
research sector's own think tank MRS Delphi Group which publishes white papers
on burning issues such as privacy, data integration and prediction. Awards – MRS
hosts the sector’s key awards including the Excellence Awards, the Operations
Awards and MRS Awards for outstanding individuals and organisations. Events –
Our comprehensive events programme including specialist conferences, the Annual
Conference, Speaker Evenings, regional and specialist events plus a Roadshow.
The changing sector Our sector is growing and changing. 73,000 professionals now
work in research and insight with the UK sector worth £4.8 billion, an increase
of £2 billion since 2012. Analytics alone has grown 350% in four years. A new
set of skills are increasing required to work within insight including
storytelling, commercial acumen and agile thinking. These were the findings of a
joint MRS/PwC report 'The Business of Evidence 2016'. What MRS does for the
sector MRS consults with business and government leaders to ensure that research
stays at the forefront of commercial and political agendas. We work on your
behalf to ensure the sector stays relevant and recognised. The MRS Code of
Conduct– Adherences to the MRS Code, as a regulator practitioner or supplier, is
a pre-requisite for many key commercial tenders and government rosters.
Procurement best practice – We consult with business and government on best
practice procurement for research. Regulatory exemptions – We liaise with
telephone regulators and suppliers to ensure that Company Partners are clearly
differentiated from other telephone activities, such as direct marketing, and
exempt from regulatory requirements. Market insight – We provide the MRS League
Tables, MRS Annual Survey and the MRS Quarterly Trends Analysis to reveal the
key market and industry trends. Freephone verification service – We provide a
Freephone service where everyone can check the validity of research suppliers
through our online register or via 0800 9759596. What else we provide MRS also
provides a host of support services and initiatives to ensure professionals and
organisations stay connected, relevant and able to generate business. Research
Jobfinder– the specialist jobs board for the insight sector, Research Jobfinder
features over 700 positions. Research Live– the definitive daily news site for
the sector also featuring in-depth articles from Impact magazine. Research
Buyers Guide (RBG) – Used by client researchers and procurement professionals,
RBG is the only source of accredited research suppliers in the UK and Ireland.
Fair Data– Fair Data is a recognised data compliance mark that enables consumers
to make educated choices about their personal data. Research for Small
Businesses– Tips and case studies for how SMEs can use research to grow their
business.
