CASRO Finalizes Social Media Guidelines

US-based MR association CASRO has finalized its Social Media Research Guidelines, which aim to provide an 'ethical framework' for research conducted in the social media space and for associated privacy expectations.

Draft guidelines, written in consultation with ESOMAR, were issued in August. The final version has been produced to reflect the ethical and professional principles set out in the broader CASRO Code of Standards and Ethics; and to be flexible when it comes to addressing both current and anticipated trends in social media.

'These are not mandated standards', notes Diane Bowers, President of CASRO. 'We expect these guidelines will evolve based on changes in the social media environment and research industry. As such, comments, additions, and edits are welcome and will be given careful consideration by our Task Force.'

The association is online at www.casro.org and the new Guidelines can be found at www.casro.org/pdfs/1011/Social_Media_Research_Guidelines.pdf .