Using a key theory of psychoanalysis (Transactional Analysis), this paper analyses the way we run our online panels. It points out that a lot of the problems we are experiencing (declining response rates, professional respondents, etc.) are potentially a direct result of 'crossed transactions' between panel owners and panel participants. It discusses examples of how our relationship could be improved and shows how new technologies may help us realign our relationship to be on a more sustainable (and Adult&Adult) basis.
A typology of panel conditioning effects and an empirical study examining the phenomenon are presented. The experiment on panel conditioning using a typical tracking study questionnaire shows that high frequency repeat interviews lead to a small degree of conditioning but low frequency repeat interviews seem to have no or very marginal effects. The study indicates the need for Panel Management Rule Books on repeat interviewing to be empirically based.
This paper describes the results of two tests to examine how mobile phone technology can be used in association with online research. The first test demonstrates how text messaging can be used to boost response to an online study. The second test compares the effectiveness of email, SMS and WAP applications to pre-screen sample prior to a follow-up online survey. It also looks at response to the online survey by method of pre-screener contact.
The paper reviews various ways in which security breaches occur and suggests ways to prevent them. It addresses crime on the Internet, specifically phishing and spyware, and considers what could happen to panel research firms if their panelists' names and email addresses ended up in the hands of identity thieves. The paper also recommends strategies to build trust in the face of sophisticated Internet scams that threaten to erode consumers' confidence in joining online panels and participating in Web-based research.