Make sure you get your data

I was meeting with a client and we were going over past research they had conducted (it was from another consulting company).  I asked if I could see the survey and the results of each question, and if they had the data file with the results.  I told the client we could still mine the datafile for additional results.  The client informed me they did not have it, only what the previous consultant gave them.  I asked the client if the study that was completed for them was part of a study involving other companies but it was not.  The unfortunate outcome is that this client is not able to fully use a data file that they should rightfully have.

Anytime you engage a consulting company and they perform any research on your employees, processes or your customers, you own the data.  Make sure this is explicitly addressed in your contracts.  Make sure you get copies of all data files and records that are made, they belong to you.  (please note that market research industry standards limit the distribution of personally identifiable information to protect people’s identity and safeguard against misuse of research data)  This is a tenant that we at The American Research Professionals feel strongly about; Do the right thing for your client.