New Tool Helps Consumers and Researchers Connect

In the US, eCGlobalPanel - the technology and panel arm of social media agency eCMetrics - has launched a new social media research platform that allows consumers to set their profiles and connect with other users according to their consumption experiences and areas of interest.

eCGlobalPanel offers research technologies, online sampling and social media solutions for the global market research industry. In February, the firm re-launched its US Hispanic Panel after a two-and-a-half year gap.

Its new solution enables researchers to interact in various ways through the network; for instance, by creating sponsored questions, opening discussion topics, or developing other community activities.

Consumers can also interact through social media games, choosing preferred products and brands and seeing the preferences of others, and inviting friends to participate. Meanwhile researchers can post activities and follow results via an interactive platform called eCKRM.

Adriana Rocha, CEO and one of the concept creators, comments: 'The most natural way for our industry to evolve is to let consumers co-create and share their experiences with us in unique ways and to go beyond traditional surveys. eCGlobal's goal is to connect consumers, engage them, and allow them to share their insights and experiences in more inherent and collaborative ways.'

The solution, which was trialled in Brazil in January, will be rolled out across Latin America and the US during 2011. Beyond this, it will incorporate other features including segmented communities and mobile applications, and be expanded into other countries by 2012.

Web site: www.ecglobalpanelcorp.com .