Qualitative research has always been about people. Their stories, experiences, reactions, and decisions. And while tools, technology, and methodologies will continue to evolve, one thing has remained constant. The strength of market research depends on the strength of the community behind it.
From the very beginning, Fieldwork has believed that participating in market research associations is essential. Industry involvement has always been a core part of how we operate because the future of qualitative research is shaped not by individual companies working alone, but by professionals working together.
The Future of Qualitative Research Is Built Collectively
Market research associations play a critical role in shaping where the insights industry is headed. They create space for collaboration, shared learning, and thoughtful discussion about what research should look like next.
As research adapts to new technologies, changing participant expectations, and evolving client needs, these organizations help ensure that progress does not come at the expense of research quality, ethics, or human connection.
Market research associations support the industry by providing
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Shared standards and best practices
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Ongoing professional education and development
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Opportunities for market research networking
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Open dialogue across roles, regions, and research specialties
This collective approach strengthens research outcomes and protects the integrity of research for the future.
Why Industry Involvement Has Always Mattered to Us
Collaboration has always been at the heart of Fieldwork. It is not just how we work. It is how we are built. Our logo reflects this belief through three dots representing the moderator, the client, and the participant. Each plays a critical role in the qualitative research process, and none can be successful without the others.
Qualitative research only works when these groups are connected and respected. Industry involvement allows us to strengthen those connections beyond individual projects. By participating in market research associations, we stay engaged in conversations that help research evolve in thoughtful and meaningful ways.
“Fieldwork has always loved bringing people together. Supporting market research associations lets us take that same spirit of hosting and hospitality beyond our own spaces and into the broader research community. Human connection is where the best insights begin.”
The Market Research Associations We Support
Fieldwork is proud to support market research associations that actively shape the future of insights. Here are a few of the associations and organizations we support:
Women in Research
Visit: www.womeninresearch.org
Advancing equity, leadership, and inclusion across the market research and insights industry.
American Society of Trial Consultants (ASTC)
Visit: www.astcweb.org
Supporting professionals conducting jury research and litigation focused qualitative studies.
ESOMAR
Visit: www.esomar.org
Providing global leadership on ethical standards, data protection, and research excellence.
QRCA (Qualitative Research Consultants Association)
Visit: www.qrca.org
A cornerstone organization for independent qualitative researchers, education, and market research networking.
EphMRA
Visit: www.ephmra.org
Advancing responsible and compliant qualitative and quantitative research in healthcare and life sciences.
Insights Association
Visit: www.insightsassociation.org
The leading voice for market research and analytics in North America.
Association for Qualitative Research (AQR)
Visit: www.aqr.org.uk
Promoting excellence and innovation in qualitative market research in the UK and globally.
Human Factors and Ergonomics Society (HFES)
Visit: www.hfes.org
Supporting human centered research focused on usability, safety, and real world application.
Market Research Education Foundation (MREF)
Visit: www.mrgivesback.org
Expanding access to education and career opportunities for the next generation of market research professionals.
Intellus Worldwide
Visit: www.intellusworldwide.com
A global association focused on healthcare, pharmaceutical, and life sciences research, bringing together professionals who support high quality insight across complex and highly regulated industries.
Global Data Quality (GDQ)
Visit: www.globaldataquality.org
An initiative dedicated to improving data quality, respondent experience, and trust across market research through shared standards and accountability.
The Research Club
Visit: www.theresearchclub.com
A community built to support research leaders through learning, collaboration, and forward thinking discussion on the future of insights.
Significant Insights 30 Under 30
Visit: www.significantinsightsmedia.com/30-under-30
While not an association, this industry recognition program highlights rising leaders who are shaping the future of market research. We believe awards like this play an important role in elevating new voices, celebrating emerging talent, and supporting the next generation of researchers.
Each of these organizations contributes to the long term strength, credibility, and sustainability of research.
Why Market Research Networking Shapes the Future
Market research networking goes beyond exchanging business cards or growing contact lists. It is about bringing people together in ways that encourage real conversation and shared learning.
At Fieldwork, we believe connection happens best when people feel welcomed. We see ourselves as hosts first. Whether that means opening our doors, creating spaces that invite discussion, or simply setting the tone for meaningful interaction, hospitality has always been part of how we support the research community. Fieldwork loves to host, and yes, we believe good research benefits from a good gathering.
Market research associations create these same environments on a larger scale. They offer opportunities for researchers to learn from one another, mentor emerging professionals, and stay connected to what is happening across the industry.
Strong networks create trust.
Trust leads to better collaboration.
And better collaboration leads to stronger qualitative research.
Investing in the Future of Research Together
The future of the research industry depends on trust, rigor, and human insight. Market research associations help protect those foundations while encouraging progress and innovation.
At Fieldwork, industry involvement has never been a trend. It has been part of who we are since the beginning. We participate because collaboration strengthens the industry, raises standards, and creates better outcomes for everyone involved.
