The value of quant in an economic crisis

It might not be what the big research firms tell you, but small-sample, fast-turnaround, inexpensive quant projects are perhaps more important now that they’ve been before.

Written by David Talbot
October 3, 2023

In tough economic times, getting decisions right matters more than ever.

Stickybeak is one of a growing number of tools that can give you the confidence you’re on the right track - and perhaps even a competitive advantage.

It might not be what the big research firms tell you, but small-sample, fast-turnaround, inexpensive quant projects are perhaps more important now that they’ve been before.

For those organisations that aren’t doing any quant, it’s an easy way in. 

For those who already are, it’s often an inexpensive addition - an easy way to step up the research cadence in an increasingly competitive environment.

Moreover, because social’s in our DNA, Stickybeak is the ideal place to test creative that will live on social - and reach audiences who do as well.

We have lots of great relationships with big international research companies and love a good market segmentation as much as anyone, but we also understand that when budgets are tight, businesses need to cut their coats according to their cloth.

We often start by asking clients “What’s the one main question you want your research to answer?”. This is powerful because it demands focus and the discipline to distil down to a decision. 

Too many research projects are subject to scope creep - we get it, it’s tempting to want to know everything about everything - but it’s usually not the best way to move forward.

Once you can answer that question, it may well be that a short survey, or a simple test comparing a range of options you’re trying to choose between - some messages, logo options, different pack designs, or other consumer preferences - is exactly what’s required.

We often say there are three key points to test: ideation, iteration, and in-market.

Stickybeak lowers the barrier to entry in terms of simple quant that all three points can often be covered for a fraction of the price of what has been available traditionally - and insights generated much much faster.

And right now, that matters more than ever.