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• Research Methods
• Research Technologies
• Online Sample Sources

Socratic Web Boards^SM

Socratic Web Boards are a unique online methodology for collecting qualitative data during the early phases of the research process, or when focus groups are impractical.

They can be likened to virtual focus groups in that they allow multiple participants the opportunity to contribute feedback to a particular concept or product.

Since Web discussion boards usually take place over the course of several days, and can be accessed via the Web 24-hours a day, participation on a Web discussion board can be completed at the discretion of the respondent. This aspect of Web boards is particularly useful when respondents are dispersed over multiple time zones.

Web discussion boards are also a cost-effective and efficient method of early qualitative research. This methodology is most appropriate when targeting Web savvy audiences, as they require participants to utilize the boards frequently.

Benefits of using Web Board technology:

• Effective way to generate insightful feedback about new products or services
• Saves traveling time and money
• Have the ability to tap into a broader geographical scope, and to reach segments of the population that would otherwise be difficult to recruit
• Absence of time constraints associated with traditional focus groups can lead more thought-out responses
• Respondents have almost total freedom of when they post their daily responses

The Socratic Advantage

• Socratic Web Board methodology fills the niche between one-on-one interviewing and focus groups.
• Socratic has extensive knowledge about when to utilize Web Boards and which participant segments respond well to Web Board methodology
• Socratic's servers are able to support large numbers of simultaneous Web board participants and are known for their high reliability and performance
• Socratic employs well-trained and experienced moderators who are experts at facilitating insightful discussions that uncover participants' true opinions about specific topics through this online technique.