MRX Lab

In Season 3, we spoke to Andrew Cannon ahead of the Year of Joy launch. Now that the community is up and running, we check in and meet Shari Alyse, America's Joy Magnet, who has joined the team as the official Joy Reporter. On this episode, we hear about some of the previous and upcoming joy superpowers that the team are shining a spotlight on, plus dig into the Joy Barometer as a tool for improving your wellbeing. Over the course of 30 minutes, we explore the impact of purpose, freedom, wellbeing and happiness on our own level of joy, and the steps we can take to increase it. Shari discusses the importance of centring on the self, and Andrew shares how to use scorecards to better understand our own experiences. Tune in for this and so much more. --- Presented by: Chris Martin, CMO @ FlexMR (CJ_24K) Featuring: Andrew Cannon, Co-Founder of The Art and Science of Joy (Website / LinkedIn) And: Shari Alyse, Media Spokeswoman and Joy Reporter at The Art and Science of Joy (LinkedIn) Sign up to join the Year of Joy community and get your scorecard here. For more info on FlexMR, visit www.flexmr.net Or connect via LinkedIn / Twitter / Facebook

How can research and insight shape the important conversations around sustainability and the climate crisis? In this episode, we're joined by members of the Young Person's Sustainability Council, a part of the MRS &More network to explore exactly that. Nikita and Lisa explain how the group started, it's ambitious aims and views on building sustainable societies. Over the course of this episode, we examine the role of individual action and institutional change, the practical steps that young professionals can take to contribute to a more sustainable world and some of the projects and actions that provide hope for a better future. In particular, we highlight the work of the Climate Action Groups built by the advertising industry and Patagonia, before looking at how these inspiring actions can provide a blueprint for all. --- Presented by: Chris Martin, CMO @ FlexMR (CJ_24K) Featuring: Nikita Simone, Senior Research Executive at The Big Picture (Website / LinkedIn) And: Lisa Mai, Account Director at Headland Consultancy (Website / LinkedIn) Find out more and follow the Young Person's Sustainability Collective here. For more info on FlexMR, visit www.flexmr.net Or connect via LinkedIn / Twitter / Facebook

The world today is a complex place. We have access to vast, often overwhelming, volumes of data all competing for attention. In that environment, how can corporations and busy executives make sense of it all? That's the central question we pose to Paul Hudson, CEO of FlexMR and Edward Appleton, Director Global Marketing & Sales at Happy Thinking People, part of InSites Consulting. Over the course of half an hour, we examine the relationship between research, marketing and strategy – including how the dynamic has drastically changed over time. We ask how insight can make a long-term, meaningful impact and dissect the hallmarks of success. And we apply those learnings to the challenging commercial outlook that lies ahead in 2023. --- Presented by: Chris Martin, CMO @ FlexMR (CJ_24K) Featuring: Edward Appleton, Director of Global Marketing and Sales @ Happy Thinking People, part of Insites Consulting (Website / LinkedIn) And: Paul Hudson, Founder and CEO of FlexMR (Website / LinkedIn) To learn about Edward's high impact example projects, visit ana.esomar.org For more info on FlexMR, visit www.flexmr.net Or connect via LinkedIn / Twitter / Facebook

Market research and consumer insight professionals are no stranger to artificial intelligence. The technology has been listed as a top 5 buzz topics in every Greenbook GRIT report since 2016. It's increasingly being used to power data collection and analytics tools, and offers the promise of previously unseen insight. But the release of advanced natural language chatbots and AI powered art generators have thrown the technology into the mainstream spotlight over the past few weeks. In this episode of the MRX Lab, we took the opportunity to ask one of these tools – ChatGPT – about the role of artificial intelligence in consumer insight. What followed was a ten minute conversation between one human and one language model trained to interact in a human-like manner. --- Presented by: Chris Martin, CMO @ FlexMR (CJ_24K) Featuring: ChatGPT from OpenAI (Website) For more info on FlexMR, visit www.flexmr.net Or connect via LinkedIn / Twitter / Facebook

Empathy is a skill that we're all born with, but as with everything else – it's something we must practise to become better at. Marketers and researchers are acutely aware of the role that empathy plays in building customer relationships, creating positive work cultures and simply connecting with others throughout all aspects of our day-to-day lives. In this episode of the MRX Lab, we speak to Rob Volpe, CEO & founder of Ignite 360 and author of Tell Me More About That, about the impact that empathy has on marketing, research and leadership. We discuss the misconceptions about the subject, the role of EQ and the common barriers to building empathy with others. Rob also shares his personal journey and highlights important data on the empathy crisis facing the world today. --- Presented by: Chris Martin, CMO @ FlexMR (CJ_24K) Featuring: Rob Volpe, CEO & Founder @ Ignite 360 (Website / LinkedIn) To learn about Rob's book, Tell Me More About That, visit www.5stepstoempathy.com For more info on FlexMR, visit www.flexmr.net Or connect via LinkedIn / Twitter / Facebook

What role does joy play in our lives? How can we measure its impact? What steps can we take to create more joy for ourselves and others? These are the questions we explore in this conversation with Andrew Cannon, Co-Founder of The Art and Science of Joy. Andrew's latest project is The Year of Joy, an online research community launch in January 2023 that will inspire people to find the components and recipes that enable them to live more joyous lives. Tune in to hear more about the project, what the team hope to achieve, plus what working professionals can do to bring themselves more joy. --- Presented by: Chris Martin, CMO @ FlexMR (CJ_24K) Featuring: Andrew Cannon, Co-Founder @ The Art and Science of Joy (LinkedIn) To sign up to The Year of Joy Community, visit www.theartandscienceofjoy.com/year-of-joy Or connect via LinkedIn / Instagram / Web For more info on FlexMR, visit www.flexmr.net Or connect via LinkedIn / Twitter / Facebook

A new election period is just around the corner for ESOMAR. The incoming candidates are laying out their visions for the future of the industry and highlighting what they can bring to the organisation's Council. In this episode, we chat to FlexMR CEO, and Council candidate, Paul Hudson about his experiences in the market research industry and the challenges that lie ahead. Over the course of 10 minutes, we cover the convergence of agency and client side teams, the complex role that research and insight plays in the modern commercial landscape and how ESOMAR can prepare for an interconnected future where data fluency and diversity are key. --- Presented by: Chris Martin, CMO @ FlexMR (CJ_24K) Featuring: Paul Hudson, CEO (LinkedIn) For more info on FlexMR, visit www.flexmr.net Or connect via LinkedIn / Twitter / Facebook

The past few years have thrown unprecedented challenges at the global economy: A pandemic. War in Europe. Supply chain breakdowns. Rapidly rising inflation and murmurs of recession. It can be tempting to ask, during such trying times, what place does marketing have amid such dire circumstances? That's the exact question we aim to answer in this MRX Lab episode. We investigate three ways marketers and research professionals should conduct themselves, and three tempting responses to avoid. In particular, we look at the role of spending, memorable brand assets, communication and insight. --- Presented by: Chris Martin, CMO @ FlexMR (CJ_24K) For more info on FlexMR, visit www.flexmr.net Or connect via LinkedIn / Twitter / Facebook

Modern brands thrive on data. From optimising supply chains and real-time product distribution to instant CX feedback and live marketing tests - data is everywhere. Traditionally, insight professionals have acted as the custodians of customer and consumer knowledge. But times are changing, and data engineers are building pipelines that feed crucial information to decision-makers. Across this 10 minute episode, we explore the growing role of data engineering in 21st century business, investigate similarities with market research practices and ask what insight professionals can learn from the emerging profession. --- Presented by: Chris Martin, CMO @ FlexMR (CJ_24K) For more info on FlexMR, visit www.flexmr.net Or connect via LinkedIn / Twitter / Facebook

Brands powered by data and insight are 3x more likely to report significant improvements in the quality of their decision making. But how do you build trust and engagement with stakeholders to create a culture of insight? In this episode, we speak Andy Smith from NFU Mutual about how research professionals can begin on that journey. Across 10 minutes, we discuss the role of a planned approach to communications, the importance of credibility, growing into a business leadership role and the challenges that often stand in our way. --- Presented by: Chris Martin, CMO @ FlexMR (CJ_24K) Featuring: Andy Smith, Insight Manager (LinkedIn) For more info on NFU Mutual, visit https://www.nfumutual.co.uk For more info on FlexMR, visit www.flexmr.net Or connect via LinkedIn / Twitter / Facebook

How do you approach a research topic as divisive and polarising as vaccine hesitancy? In this episode, we speak to Dr Jack Gorman – Co-Founder of Critica, a non-profit organisation which does precisely that. We delve into the technique of motivational interviewing and how it's helping to deliver better online interventions against misinformation. Across the 10 minutes, we explore the need for humility in science, how the internet is changing the information landscape and how finding space for shared understanding can lead to more positive outcomes. --- Presented by: Chris Martin, CMO @ FlexMR (CJ_24K) Featuring: Dr Jack Gorman, Co-Founder of Critica (LinkedIn) For more info on Critica, visit https://www.criticascience.org For more info on FlexMR, visit www.flexmr.net Or connect via LinkedIn / Twitter / Facebook

As the Founder of Insight Platforms, Mike Stevens has a long history of creating high-quality, practical content for research and insight professionals. From detailed market maps to e-learning courses, buyers guides, themed summits and more – we discuss the story of Insight Platforms and the process behind creating valuable, practical resources for the industry. Throughout the episode, we touch on the importance of staying in touch with your audience, aligning to in-the-moment needs and understanding the prevailing conditions of the market. We also look to the future and ask what's next for the growing research directory. --- Presented by: Chris Martin, CMO @ FlexMR (CJ_24K) Featuring: Mike Stevens, Founder of Insight Platforms (LinkedIn) For more info on Insight Platforms, visit https://www.insightplatforms.com/ For more info on FlexMR, visit www.flexmr.net Or connect via LinkedIn / Twitter / Facebook

A rising demand for data and new technologies have both pushed qualitative research to new heights. But in the pursuit of speed and scale, have we lost some of what makes qual valuable? In this episode, we're joined by Dr Matthew Farmer, Senior Research Associate at FlexMR, to discuss the challenges of scaling qual, and emerging thinking around thick data. Over the course of 10 minutes, we investigate the purpose of depth interviews, focus groups and other, traditionally small-scale methodologies. We look at what scale really means, and discuss the implications of expanding depth instead of volume. And finally, we examine how qual research can better adapt to the needs of decision-makers and become a strategic driving force. --- Presented by: Chris Martin, CMO @ FlexMR (CJ_24K) Featuring: Dr Matthew Farmer, Senior Research Associate @ FlexMR (LinkedIn) For more info on FlexMR, visit www.flexmr.net Or connect via LinkedIn / Twitter / Facebook

As a burgeoning media channel, much of our understanding of podcast listeners relies simply on volumetric listening figures. But Acast is changing that dynamic. The company is building a robust library of insight into listeners, their preferences, habits and more. In this episode, we're joined by Tommy Walters of Acast. Over 10 minutes, we explore what it takes to understand podcast audiences in detail, and put insights at the centre of collaborations with a variety of stakeholders – from advertisers to podcasters, listeners to media partners. Tommy even shares key data points on podcast audiences from Acast's latest report. --- Presented by: Chris Martin, CMO @ FlexMR (CJ_24K) Featuring: Tommy Walters, Commercial Insights Manager @ Acast (LinkedIn) For more info on Acast, visit www.acast.com For more info on FlexMR, visit www.flexmr.net Or connect via LinkedIn / Twitter / Facebook

Today's customers are connected, influential as individuals and have access to a global stage upon which to act. In this world, the dynamic between brand and buyer provides great leverage to customers, but also great opportunity to insight teams. In this episode, we explore with Maria Twigge of FlexMR, why it is no longer enough to understand a market map as a theoretical concept or to listen to customers as input in decision making. We discuss how forward-thinking research teams are driving the conversation around customer-centric cultures and empowering people with new, better tools of engagement. --- Presented by: Chris Martin, CMO @ FlexMR (CJ_24K) Featuring: Maria Twigge, Research Director @ FlexMR (LinkedIn) For more info on FlexMR, visit www.flexmr.net Or connect via LinkedIn / Twitter / Facebook

Insight frameworks represent a formalised expression of the strategy, tactics and implementations of how research flows through a business. From the inputs, to the processes, systems and technologies that shape fieldwork, and eventually to the way in which outputs impact action – frameworks are a crucial tool for building a data-driven, customer-centric culture. In this episode, we investigate what is an insight framework is, why are they important and how can you start building one today. While there is no single answer to what the ideal framework should look like, over the course of ten minutes we identify best practices, common themes and stand-out examples. --- Presented by: Chris Martin, CMO @ FlexMR (CJ_24K) For more info on FlexMR, visit www.flexmr.net Or connect via LinkedIn / Twitter / Facebook

To democratise data is to provide access, control and input over the research process to the end-users of data. There's a huge range of benefits that this can provide, from better communication to more streamlined project management. But to create a true culture of insight is challenging. In this episode, we discuss the steps to success. After an introduction to the reasons why a company might consider democratising research, we explore the steps researchers need to take in order to make it happen in a productive, positive way. From carefully defining project engagement processes to placing the right value on research expertise, and the importance of consistent communication – tune in to find out more. --- Presented by: Chris Martin, CMO @ FlexMR (CJ_24K) For more info on FlexMR, visit www.flexmr.net Or connect via LinkedIn / Twitter / Facebook

In this episode of the MRX Lab from FlexMR, we're joined by Greg Morris, Senior Brand Research Manager at F1. Over the course of ten minutes, we evaluate the role of insight activation in market research – what it is, why it's important and the impact that it can have. Greg shares his advice for engaging stakeholders throughout a research project, overcoming time constraints and turning insight into action. We also explore why insight is so important to F1 and the role that the research team play in helping stakeholders to achieve their goals. --- Presented by: Chris Martin, CMO @ FlexMR (CJ_24K) Featuring: Greg Morris, Senior Brand Research Manager @ F1 For more info on FlexMR, visit www.flexmr.net Or connect via LinkedIn / Twitter / Facebook

As the volume of available data sources increases and business decision making becomes ever-more distributed, how do you capture stakeholder attention and ensure insight has a seat at the table? That's the question we explore whilst investigating new, emerging and creative reporting techniques. Joining us on the journey is Maria Twigge, Research Director at FlexMR. Over the course of the ten minute episode, we'll touch on the importance of creativity and innovation in presenting market research results, the skills insight professionals need to take advantage of new ideas and what the future of insight reporting might look like. --- Presented by: Chris Martin, CMO @ FlexMR (CJ_24K) Featuring: Maria Twigge, Research Director @ FlexMR (Livwithme) For more info on FlexMR, visit www.flexmr.net Or connect via LinkedIn / Twitter / Facebook

In an ever-expanding sea of options, it can be difficult to find the right mix of market research data collection methods. In this episode, we dive into the decision-making process and investigate how you can audit your research skills and investments in relation to the needs of your company. We discuss a set of four key questions that you should ask in order to develop the right balance. This process starts at the macro level, asking what its important for each department to know and ends under the microscope of identifying gaps in existing passive data. Listen now to find out more. --- Presented by: Chris Martin, CMO @ FlexMR (CJ_24K) For more info on FlexMR, visit www.flexmr.net Or connect via LinkedIn / Twitter / Facebook

What does it mean to humanise data? This episode dives into the meaning of this often-misunderstood option in the insight professional's toolkit. We investigate the alternate definitions before working through an example of the ways in which buyer personas can be brought to life. We also touch on the dangers of humanising data and pinpoint the common challenges that both marketers and researchers frequently encounter. The episode closes with an exploration of where and when to apply the practice, and how to overcome the most difficult challenges. --- Presented by: Chris Martin, CMO @ FlexMR (CJ_24K) For more info on FlexMR, visit www.flexmr.net Or connect via LinkedIn / Twitter / Facebook

In this episode of the MRX Lab from FlexMR, we're joined by Dan Siddle, Senior Consumer and Brand Insights Manager for Western Europe at the Molson Coors Beverage Company. Across the ten minutes, we discuss how research and insight teams can dig deeper into business questions, understand what stakeholders need to know and prioritise projects in a fast-paced environment. Dan shares his advice for managing both proactive and reactive research, criteria for evaluating insight priorities and processes for streamlining relationships with key business units. We also touch on balancing high and low impact work, as well as how to navigate the uncertainty around major exploratory projects. --- Presented by: Chris Martin, CMO @ FlexMR (CJ_24K) Featuring: Dan Siddle, Senior Consumer and Brand Insights Manager for Western Europe @ Molson Coors Beverage Company For more info on FlexMR, visit www.flexmr.net Or connect via LinkedIn / Twitter / Facebook

In this episode of the MRX Lab from FlexMR, we look at the roles of customer, user and human experience research. What makes each of these domains different and where do they share similarities? We look back at the origins of UX and CX to investigate how they have evolved over time and what might be in store next. This episode also serves as a deep dive into the emerging field of human experience research. While still new, there are a number of definitions that agree on one thing. HX involves understanding and designing for human emotion – it seeks to answer questions about people, not interactions or things. But will this be enough to differentiate the practice in the crowded research dictionary? Only time will tell. --- Presented by: Chris Martin, CMO @ FlexMR (CJ_24K) For more info on FlexMR, visit www.flexmr.net Or connect via LinkedIn / Twitter / Facebook

In this episode of the MRX Lab from FlexMR, we interview Charlotte Evans on how to effectively connect with long-term market research participants. An expert in engagement, Charlotte highlights why this is such an important topic for insight professionals to understand, in addition providing an overview of simple strategies that can be employed. We discuss the differences between participant engagement based on project factors, such as length or methodology – in addition to the tactics that remain the same across all types. Finally, Charlotte discusses the skills that insight professionals should aim to curate in order to grow their capacity to better connect with participants. --- Presented by: Chris Martin, CMO @ FlexMR (CJ_24K) Featuring: Charlotte Evans, Research Executive @ FlexMR (Charlottelevans) For more info on FlexMR, visit www.flexmr.net Or connect via LinkedIn / Twitter / Facebook

In this episode of the MRX Lab from FlexMR, we speak with Sally Nicholls on how to approach the design stage of the research process. Drawing on years of industry experience, Sally highlights a number of the common challenges that insight professionals often face, and practical ways to overcome them. In particular, we discuss the role of robust debate - finding the common ground between insight professionals and stakeholders. Additionally, Sally draws attention to the real world considerations that must be factored into effective research design and cautions against an over-reliance on the research question alone. --- Presented by: Chris Martin, CMO @ FlexMR (CJ_24K) Featuring: Sally Nicholls, Insight Manager @ FlexMR For more info on FlexMR, visit www.flexmr.net Or connect via LinkedIn / Twitter / Facebook

In the second episode of the MRX Lab, we investigate what it takes to make research happen. Joined by Gareth Bowden and Sally Nicholls from FlexMR, the episode explores the common challenges and pitfalls that can hold up a project before it even gets off the ground – from business-wide input to budgetary decisions and sudden, unexpected developments. We also discuss the ways in which insight professionals can avoid and mitigate the impact of these challenges – speeding up the research process and driving improvements in efficiency. Gareth highlights the importance of a reliable network, while Sally underlines the need for flexibility and adaptability to change. --- Presented by: Chris Martin, CMO @ FlexMR (CJ_24K) Featuring: Gareth Bowden, Research Project Manager @ FlexMR, and Sally Nicholls, Insight Manager @ FlexMR For more info on FlexMR, visit www.flexmr.net Or connect via LinkedIn / Twitter / Facebook

The MRX Lab podcast is back for a brand new season in 2021. In our first episode, we chat insights empowerment with FlexMR CEO, Paul Hudson. A 15+ year industry veteran, Paul explains how the modern pressures placed on research professionals are creating a strong need to find new ways of working. We discuss the role of efficiency, reach and influence as key drivers of change and investigate creative tactics for overcoming common challenges. Paul highlights the role of video in research as a stand out method of activation, and identifies how empowerment moves data out of insights departments to underpin a customer-centric culture. --- Presented by: Chris Martin, CMO @ FlexMR (CJ_24K) Featuring: Paul Hudson, CEO @ FlexMR (pd_hudson) For more info on FlexMR, visit www.flexmr.net Or connect via LinkedIn / Twitter / Facebook

In this episode of the MRX Lab podcast from FlexMR, we look at the opposing forces of globalization and localization. What do these trends mean for the market research industry and how do they affect the work that we do? After a brief introduction, we examine the challenges that a connected world poses and identify ways local knowledge can be used to build a competitive edge. In the second half of the episode, we outline simple ways in which market research teams under pressure to deliver more for less can influence both global decisions and act as the voice for territorial differences at the same time. --- Presented by: Chris Martin, CMO @ FlexMR (CJ_24K) For more info on FlexMR, the technology led research agency, visit www.flexmr.net Or connect via LinkedIn / Twitter / Facebook

In this episode of the MRX Lab podcast from FlexMR, we take an in-depth look at philosophical constructs of knowledge, and how our beliefs about the nature of information shape the very work we do. In particular, we discuss the ideas of rationalism, empiricism and pragmatism through the unique lens of the insights sector. Throughout the course of this episode, we investigate the theses that define each of these systems of thought, the key differences between them and identify how we can use each to deliver better, more impactful research reports to decision makers. --- Presented by: Chris Martin, CMO @ FlexMR (CJ_24K) For more info on FlexMR, the technology led research agency, visit www.flexmr.net Or connect via LinkedIn / Twitter / Facebook

In this episode of the MRX Lab podcast from FlexMR, we investigate three project management methodologies that are not agile. While agile research has quickly become part of the insights lexicon, there is much to be learnt from examining other techniques that have guided management principles over the past decades. Throughout the course of this episode, we dive into the manufacturing roots of waterfall, the extreme ends of agile that comprise lean ideals, and the statistically driven Six Sigma process – evaluating the merits and drawbacks of each in turn. --- Presented by: Chris Martin, CMO @ FlexMR (CJ_24K) For more info on FlexMR, the technology led research agency, visit www.flexmr.net Or connect via LinkedIn / Twitter / Facebook

In this episode of the MRX Lab podcast from FlexMR, we discuss a valuable but rarely discussed soft skill that plays a vital role in research – critical thinking. While strategic thinking may have taken the spotlight in recent years, the ability to think in a critical manner and minimise cognitive bias is one all insights professionals need to succeed. Throughout the course of this episode, we examine some of the potential reasons why critical thinking may have been side-lined, what value it holds and some simply ways to develop the skill. --- Presented by: Chris Martin, CMO @ FlexMR (CJ_24K) For more info on FlexMR, the technology led research agency, visit www.flexmr.net Or connect via LinkedIn / Twitter / Facebook

In this episode of the MRX Lab podcast from FlexMR, we talk about the economic principles that are relevant to the insights industry. We start by defining the key differences between behavioural and more traditional economics, as well as exploring how the two fields have blurred lines of enquiry in the past. Over the second half of the episode, we dive into a number of key economic ideas and how they relate to the work researchers undertake – from marginality to calculating cost, understanding the trade-offs people make to how incentives change behaviours. Importantly, we draw conclusions about the value of both the rational and irrational consumer mind. --- Presented by: Chris Martin, CMO @ FlexMR (CJ_24K) For more info on FlexMR, the technology led research agency, visit www.flexmr.net Or connect via LinkedIn / Twitter / Facebook

In this episode of the MRX Lab podcast from FlexMR, we talk about the slow movement; cultural revolution against the notion that faster is always better. We identify some of the key areas that the movement has influenced and ask whether there is a place for market research that is conducted at a deliberately slow pace. Over the course of this 10 minute episode, we examine how science, journalism, marketing and other practices have been affected before turning our sights on the popularity of agile practices in market research. We identify the tools, strategies and approaches that can be deployed to ensure that insight processes are conducted at the right speed. --- Presented by: Chris Martin, CMO @ FlexMR (CJ_24K) For more info on FlexMR, the technology led research agency, visit www.flexmr.net Or connect via LinkedIn / Twitter / Facebook

In this episode of the MRX Lab podcast from FlexMR, we look at the forces of sacred & profane consumption, and their effects on consumer behaviour. We ask what relevance these marketing and branding theories from the late 1900s have to modern researchers and examine the ways in which our investigation of behaviour can be shaped by such a lens. After defining the sacred and profane, we discuss the role of brand cathedrals, consumer rituals and other parallels that can be drawn from both the secularization of religion and the sacralization of the secular. But most importantly, we consider how to adapt research based on rituals and why understanding this context matters. --- Presented by: Chris Martin, CMO @ FlexMR (CJ_24K) For more info on FlexMR, the technology led research agency, visit www.flexmr.net Or connect via LinkedIn / Twitter / Facebook

In this episode of the MRX Lab podcast from FlexMR, we explore the gig economy and ask whether it's having an impact on the market research industry. We look at the societal changes taking place, shifting consumer attitudes, the effect on insights professionals and deep dive into conflicts with the practice of research sampling. Across the short episode, we consider how workforces are changing. Although freelancers in the insights industry have been relatively insulated to date – offering a highly skilled service in a complex environment – we cannot ignore the wider changes and what it means for the sector. --- Presented by: Chris Martin, CMO @ FlexMR (CJ_24K) For more info on FlexMR, the technology led research agency, visit www.flexmr.net Or connect via LinkedIn / Twitter / Facebook

In this episode of the MRX Lab podcast from FlexMR, we dive into the niche world of table top RPGs and what they can teach us about telling more engaging stories. The episode focuses on the role of the Dungeon Master, the primary narrative function in these pen and paper games, and the methods they have developed for keeping players interested in tales that can last multiple months. We explore ten different ideas that the medium has generated – from the role in which audience members play in stories, to literary devices that add impact and weight to important moments, even to the importance of understanding stakeholder roles and motivations. --- Presented by: Chris Martin, CMO @ FlexMR (CJ_24K) For more info on FlexMR, the technology led research agency, visit www.flexmr.net Or connect via LinkedIn / Twitter / Facebook

In this episode of the MRX Lab podcast from FlexMR, we investigate the research to action divide and look to whether creative reporting techniques can provide a path to closing it. We hone in on advertising and art as two key fields from which to draw inspiration and examine the techniques used to motivate audiences and inspire action. We look at the role of attention, novelty and emotion in creating a memorable, engaging visual – and contrast how creative reporting techniques perform against more traditional alternatives. The episode concludes with tips and advice on how to get started with the development of new, visual and stimulating formats for presenting research data. --- Presented by: Chris Martin, CMO @ FlexMR (CJ_24K) For more info on FlexMR, the technology led research agency, visit www.flexmr.net Or connect via LinkedIn / Twitter / Facebook

In this episode of the MRX Lab podcast from FlexMR, we look at the principles of journalistic ethics set out by the Ethical Journalism Network and the American Press Association. We'll focus on four key principles in particular: the need to be truthful & accurate, the endeavour to be independent, the importance of loyalty to citizens and, finally, the concept of proportionality. We'll also touch on practical tips and advice from journalists on how to engage audiences and tell the right stories to the right people at the right time – a vitally important skill for researchers. --- Presented by: Chris Martin, CMO @ FlexMR (CJ_24K) For more info on FlexMR, the technology led research agency, visit www.flexmr.net Or connect via LinkedIn / Twitter / Facebook

In this episode of the MRX Lab podcast from FlexMR, we investigate the practice of design thinking and its relevance as a philosophy to market research and insight. We frame the context in which design thinking principles can be most effectively applied and break down the process into its component parts. The discussion also touches on learnings that we can take from design thinking into our day-to-day activities, but cautions against overuse or broad, sweeping generalisations that often pervade such narratives. --- Presented by: Chris Martin, CMO @ FlexMR (CJ_24K) For more info on FlexMR, the technology led research agency, visit www.flexmr.net Or connect via LinkedIn / Twitter / Facebook

In this episode of the MRX Lab podcast from FlexMR, we investigate the use of memes in online qualitative research, and how to decode the complex meaning that can be found in them. We take three examples from recent internet history; the emoticon, the distracted boyfriend and the Dolly Parton challenge - applying semiotic analysis to uncover the rich social and cultural data they reveal about those that share them. Finally, we turn to the skills and processes required to turn memes from strange curio to source of useful, relevant research data. --- Presented by: Chris Martin, CMO @ FlexMR (CJ_24K) For more info on FlexMR, the technology led research agency, visit www.flexmr.net Or connect via LinkedIn / Twitter / Facebook

In this episode of the MRX Lab podcast from FlexMR, we explore the relationship between insight professionals and software developers. In an era where researchers are 2.3x more likely to use an online survey than an offline alternative, it's important to examine the skills, relationships and effects that development teams are having on the industry. And more important still is not just understanding the impact, but actively bringing both skill sets together in order to deliver better research software and better results for our clients. --- Presented by: Chris Martin, CMO @ FlexMR (CJ_24K) For more info on FlexMR, the technology led research agency, visit www.flexmr.net Or connect via LinkedIn / Twitter / Facebook

In this episode of the MRX Lab podcast from FlexMR, we explore the fun, messiness and novelty that should accompany innovation. Because, today, innovation is weighed down by management structures, pipelines and investment strategies – often reducing it to little more than a line item on a financial report. Stuff enough ideas in one end and new ways of working, products or services will emerge from the other. That's the theory at least. But that strips out some of the most valuable, human elements; something that researchers are well positioned to fit back in. --- Presented by: Chris Martin, CMO @ FlexMR (CJ_24K) For more info on FlexMR, the technology led research agency, visit www.flexmr.net Or connect via LinkedIn / Twitter / Facebook

This is the MRX Lab podcast from FlexMR! In our first episode, we cover a brief introduction to the show, how it came about, what we hope you take away from it, and the topics we'll be covering throughout our first season. Created for market research and insight professionals, this podcast zigs where others zag. Instead of featuring interviews with industry leaders or discussing hot topics - the MRX Lab dissects and examines conversations on the fringes of insight. --- Presented by: Chris Martin, CMO @ FlexMR (CJ_24K) For more info on FlexMR, the technology led research agency, visit www.flexmr.net Or connect via LinkedIn / Twitter / Facebook