From the Quirk's magazine, November 2008

November issue of the Quirk's Marketing Research Review has a few interesting articles dealing with online-research. You can find quick overviews of these articles below, and read them on Quirk's website, where you can also search its archive of marketing research articles (it's pretty easy to sign up for free access to the online database).

A look at four important methodological questions for online research by Susan Frede, TNS
The impact of several online research practices - including sending survey reminders, use of generic survey invites and excluding partial completes - is examined, with the aim of developing methods to improve statistical rigor.

A look at the impact of boredom on the respondent experience by Jon Puleston, Global Market Insite and Deborah Sleep, Engage Research
The first of a two-part series on improving online respondent engagement looks at the problems caused by factors such as overlong questionnaires and the overuse of grid-type questions.

Creating the conditions for data quality by Laura Davies, Vision Critical
Looking at some of the reasons behind panelist frustration with the survey process, the author presents a set of actions the industry can take to enhance respondent engagement and satisfaction.

Research panels from the panelists' perspective by Janet Westergaard, Esearch.com
A study of panelists investigated why respondents take part in the panel research process. Most cite money as the main reason but several take part because they enjoy the process and like being able to express their opinions to product makers.