Impressive work portfolio…

How best to name the next generation video game console?

Quantitative online and qualitative

Multi-phased international study. Quantitative portion tested a large number of potential naming options using creative approaches to mask the end-client. The qualitative follow-up delved further into the perceptions surrounding each potential name, specifically to understand the fit of each name to the brand, product, etc.

What is the net impact of a company's presence at sporting/music events? Will offering samples drive conversion?

Quantitative intercepts

MDC's staff attended six events across the country where our client had a heavy presence in sponsorship and distribution of new product category samples to event patrons. MDC's expert intercepting crew successfully executed post sample/tasting surveys at each event providing an overall robust sample size. The results imparted client sponsorship ROI and the efficacy of product sampling at such events.

How does a manufacturer introduce a new lithium-ion power tool into a non-traditional and skeptical (chainsaw) marketplace?

Quantitative online and qualitative

Nationwide study with existing power tool users, both DIY and trade audiences. Repeated qualitative exposures were used to redefine product engineering goals, feature sets, consumer/trade resistance, styling and branding issues.

Can a new store layout to attract new customers in a mature/stagnant market? Will it increase spending among current customers?

Quantitative intercepts

More than 1,000 in-person interviews were conducted in both control and concept stores to better understand the impact of a complete store revamp. Measurements included: effect on overall customer experience, customer demographic mix, and total spend. Findings equipped our client with the necessary information to rollout store redesigns to all locations nationwide.

What is the total size of the firearm market? How do we segment the overall market, and where do new opportunities lie?

Quantitative online

Comprehensive study with a robust sample size (n=10,000+) enabled detailed market segmentation, and the ability to deeply analyze the data. The end result allowed our client to better align their strategic roadmap with the immediate and long-term needs of the marketplace.

To what extent do customers pay attention to bill inserts? How can messaging best resonate and drive action?

Qualitative

International focus group series of customers and prospects. Inclusion of a pre-session exercise, where participants were asked to collect and categorize mailings they have received (immediately toss, scan, read thoroughly, save for future reference, etc.). Additionally, the research tested a number of conceptual mailings to increase upcoming campaign efficacy.

How do channel partners feel about a company's engagement with them? Frequency of contact, depth of engagement, responsiveness, etc.

Proprietary panel

MDC recruited and maintained a proprietary panel of over 30,000 channel partners across the globe. The on-going engagement included a monthly survey to better understand how channel program changes affect partner perceptions and core business. The panel was also used for ad-hoc surveys, including qualitative initiatives. Ultimately, panel's ability to successfully engage with partners created a profit center for this client.

How can a non-profit organization increase charitable donations in down economy?

Quantitative phone

Large scale telephone surveys of residents living within trade areas of the organization's branches. Potential donation increasing concepts were explored. The results drove a highly-successful campaign that increased much needed donations for individuals and families in need.

Can a product manufacturer re-design packaging in a mature market to attract new customers, without alienating current customers?

Quantitative online and qualitative

A multi-phased research approach was used to first understand perceptions of current, competitive and conceptual packaging to understand what drives appeal at retail. The feedback was used to refine concepts and test them quantitatively before investing in full package re-design across key product lines.

In a feature-rich product category, which are must-have, delighters, or only nice-to-have?

Quantitative online

Comprehesive online study was conducted which included a number of advanced analytical approaches. Through the use of Kano and MaxDiff advanced analytics, the research helped guide the client in prioritization of feature development. Additionally, the research helped create a marketing campaign around features most likely to drive customer delight.