Approach

 Integrating qualitative & quantitative tools to dig deep

 VEM has developed a proprietary research methodology that combines qualitative insights with quantitative analysis (we call it “Q2”) to find solutions for complex stakeholder communication issues.

 Most organisations now recognise the value of objective research and feedback to successfully identify, prioritise and act on perceptions that influence their respective reputations and/or market valuations.

 VEM uses a combination of quantitative (telephone and on-line surveys) and qualitative research (focus groups and face-to-face interviews) to gain greater insights into stakeholder views. This approach increases the confidence in results, uncovers deeper and richer insights, pinpoints emotional and rational drivers, and is more forward-looking rather than alternative rear-view mirror approaches.

 The methodology isolates and aggregates the key drivers for changing the perceptions about an organisation. This intelligence helps organisations to monitor, manage and pre-empt expectations and perceptions.

 VEM “premium” stakeholder perception studies for larger organisations are typically:

 · anonymous, high-level deep-insight surveys of key stakeholders and opinion-leaders;

· contain both qualitative and quantitative elements – that is, we tell an organisation what the stakeholders say and what the strength of their views is via a rating component (unlike others which have only one component); and

· provide separate segmental data on the various stakeholder groups surveyed (which our competitors don’t). This can be both important and highly useful given that we often find that different stakeholder groups have different perceptions on issues.

 "Understanding the non-financial drivers of an organisation is the key to developing new strategies and ways of communicating them. Sentiments and issues are seen as intangibles, but our methodology produces measurable results.”

Mary Beth Bauer
VEM Principal and Founder