ESOMAR and GRBN Update Online Research Guidelines

Research industry bodies ESOMAR and GRBN have introduced updated guidelines, to clarify researchers' responsibilities when using online methods for collecting data.

The new 'Guideline for Online Research', published by ESOMAR (World Association for Social, Opinion and Market Research) and GRBN (Global Research Business Network), has been developed to help ensure that researchers who execute research online remain sensitive to consumer concerns about privacy, and avoid activities and technology practices that risk undermining public confidence in market research.

These guidelines address the requirement for explicit consent in situations where researchers collect personal data from participants in research panels and mobile applications; while also specifying requirements for researchers to protect the privacy and security of any personal data collected. In addition, the guidelines address researcher relationships and responsibilities to clients and the general public, as well as best practices for methodological quality.

Finn Raben, Director General of ESOMAR, comments: 'The long-term viability of the research industry depends on how effectively we express our traditional values of respect for individuals and scientific integrity in new and emerging online research methods. In this guideline, ESOMAR and GRBN have tried to do exactly that, although we also recognise that this is not likely to be the last you will hear from us on this important topic.'

Web sites: www.esomar.org and www.grbn.org .

All articles 2006-23 written and edited by Mel Crowther and/or Nick Thomas, 2024- by Nick Thomas, unless otherwise stated.