Schools of Thought

How Consumers and Things “Co-Do”: Listening to the Language of Objects

Semiotics highlights the vitality of objects as active contributors, challenging conventional views that prioritize individual decision-making. Author Sónia Marques advocates for recognizing the agency of things and emphasizes the need to observe their role in situ, urging researchers to adeptly engage with the language of objects for a comprehensive understanding of human behavior. […]

Toolbox

DIY Infographics: Transforming Insights with Visual Storytelling

The most effective research tells a compelling story. It has been said that writing less requires more thought and strategy than writing more—so it’s no wonder many of us struggle to create infographics. Researcher Joe Hopper can relate—and in this article, he shares his approach of eight principles for creating thoughtful and compelling DIY infographics that can enhance qualitative storytelling. […]

Business Matters

The Future of Qualitative Research—An Ideation Session: How We Can Dramatically Increase Our Value to Clients and Stay Relevant in the Future

Is traditional qualitative research dead? A provocative question that seems to surface every now and then. With the proliferation of new tech tools and AI, it might feel this way sometimes, but it’s the combination of old and new methods that can help researchers increase their value to clients. Author Len Ferman identifies ideas from a brainstorming session with qualitative researchers to consider in our pursuit to add unique value to brands and businesses. […]

QRCA 2022-23 President Michael Mermelstein
From the President

From The President – Summer 2023

A role model is someone whose behavior is in some ways imitated by others, primarily because role models have abilities. But it is their passion, values, and willingness to help others through coaching and mentoring that stands out. […]

Travelwise

Home 2 Home: Travel, Research, and My Hybrid Identity

Professor Weronika Kusek knows firsthand that while one’s physical home may change, we carry our identity wherever we go. A migrant from Poland to the United States, she discusses the complexities of living between two countries, with teaching commitments in one and extended family in another, all while conducting qualitative research. Her current work focuses on migrants in Poland, specifically on Ukrainian laborers moving into Poland. This research is led by current global events, as many Ukrainians come to Poland due to the refugee crisis caused by the Russian invasion of Ukraine. […]

Global Sustainability
Global

Sustainability Meets War, Inflation, and Drought: A Snapshot of Conscious Environmentalism in Germany

A long-term online consumer research community in Germany reveals choices consumers make on consumption and purchasing habits around sustainability impact in light of the economic downturn. The reader will gain a deeper understanding of the effectiveness of sustainability programs and the extent to which consumers are willing to alter their lifestyles for conservation. […]

Shooting a stand-up show. Stand-up comedian on stage at the microphone.
Business Matters

3 Things Stand-Up Comedy Can Teach You About Building a Moderating Business

With a background as a professional stand-up comedian, focus group moderator/interviewer Leigh Kessler delivers a unique perspective on the fundamentals of both, highlighting similarities and sharing three unique lessons learned in stand-up comedy that can help develop interview skills and make you a great focus group moderator. Learn how you can benefit as a moderator—and businessperson—by spending a little time doing stand-up comedy. […]