In this episode of the MRX Lab podcast from FlexMR, we take an in-depth look at philosophical constructs of knowledge, and how our beliefs about the nature of information shape the very work we do. In particular, we discuss the ideas of rationalism, empiricism and pragmatism through the unique lens of the insights sector.

Throughout the course of this episode, we investigate the theses that define each of these systems of thought, the key differences between them and identify how we can use each to deliver better, more impactful research reports to decision makers.

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Presented by: Chris Martin, CMO @ FlexMR (CJ_24K)

For more info on FlexMR, the technology led research agency, visit www.flexmr.net

Or connect via LinkedIn / Twitter / Facebook

In this episode of the MRX Lab podcast from FlexMR, we investigate three project management methodologies that are not agile. While agile research has quickly become part of the insights lexicon, there is much to be learnt from examining other techniques that have guided management principles over the past decades.

Throughout the course of this episode, we dive into the manufacturing roots of waterfall, the extreme ends of agile that comprise lean ideals, and the statistically driven Six Sigma process – evaluating the merits and drawbacks of each in turn.

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Presented by: Chris Martin, CMO @ FlexMR (CJ_24K)

For more info on FlexMR, the technology led research agency, visit www.flexmr.net

Or connect via LinkedIn / Twitter / Facebook

In this episode of the MRX Lab podcast from FlexMR, we discuss a valuable but rarely discussed soft skill that plays a vital role in research – critical thinking. While strategic thinking may have taken the spotlight in recent years, the ability to think in a critical manner and minimise cognitive bias is one all insights professionals need to succeed.

Throughout the course of this episode, we examine some of the potential reasons why critical thinking may have been side-lined, what value it holds and some simply ways to develop the skill.

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Presented by: Chris Martin, CMO @ FlexMR (CJ_24K)

For more info on FlexMR, the technology led research agency, visit www.flexmr.net

Or connect via LinkedIn / Twitter / Facebook

In this episode of the MRX Lab podcast from FlexMR, we talk about the economic principles that are relevant to the insights industry. We start by defining the key differences between behavioural and more traditional economics, as well as exploring how the two fields have blurred lines of enquiry in the past.

Over the second half of the episode, we dive into a number of key economic ideas and how they relate to the work researchers undertake – from marginality to calculating cost, understanding the trade-offs people make to how incentives change behaviours. Importantly, we draw conclusions about the value of both the rational and irrational consumer mind.

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Presented by: Chris Martin, CMO @ FlexMR (CJ_24K)

For more info on FlexMR, the technology led research agency, visit www.flexmr.net

Or connect via LinkedIn / Twitter / Facebook

In this episode of the MRX Lab podcast from FlexMR, we talk about the slow movement; cultural revolution against the notion that faster is always better. We identify some of the key areas that the movement has influenced and ask whether there is a place for market research that is conducted at a deliberately slow pace.

Over the course of this 10 minute episode, we examine how science, journalism, marketing and other practices have been affected before turning our sights on the popularity of agile practices in market research. We identify the tools, strategies and approaches that can be deployed to ensure that insight processes are conducted at the right speed.

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Presented by: Chris Martin, CMO @ FlexMR (CJ_24K)

For more info on FlexMR, the technology led research agency, visit www.flexmr.net

Or connect via LinkedIn / Twitter / Facebook

In this episode of the MRX Lab podcast from FlexMR, we look at the forces of sacred & profane consumption, and their effects on consumer behaviour. We ask what relevance these marketing and branding theories from the late 1900s have to modern researchers and examine the ways in which our investigation of behaviour can be shaped by such a lens.

After defining the sacred and profane, we discuss the role of brand cathedrals, consumer rituals and other parallels that can be drawn from both the secularization of religion and the sacralization of the secular. But most importantly, we consider how to adapt research based on rituals and why understanding this context matters.

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Presented by: Chris Martin, CMO @ FlexMR (CJ_24K)

For more info on FlexMR, the technology led research agency, visit www.flexmr.net

Or connect via LinkedIn / Twitter / Facebook

In this episode of the MRX Lab podcast from FlexMR, we explore the gig economy and ask whether it’s having an impact on the market research industry. We look at the societal changes taking place, shifting consumer attitudes, the effect on insights professionals and deep dive into conflicts with the practice of research sampling.

Across the short episode, we consider how workforces are changing. Although freelancers in the insights industry have been relatively insulated to date – offering a highly skilled service in a complex environment – we cannot ignore the wider changes and what it means for the sector.

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Presented by: Chris Martin, CMO @ FlexMR (CJ_24K)

For more info on FlexMR, the technology led research agency, visit www.flexmr.net

Or connect via LinkedIn / Twitter / Facebook

In this episode of the MRX Lab podcast from FlexMR, we dive into the niche world of table top RPGs and what they can teach us about telling more engaging stories. The episode focuses on the role of the Dungeon Master, the primary narrative function in these pen and paper games, and the methods they have developed for keeping players interested in tales that can last multiple months.

We explore ten different ideas that the medium has generated – from the role in which audience members play in stories, to literary devices that add impact and weight to important moments, even to the importance of understanding stakeholder roles and motivations.

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Presented by: Chris Martin, CMO @ FlexMR (CJ_24K)

For more info on FlexMR, the technology led research agency, visit www.flexmr.net

Or connect via LinkedIn / Twitter / Facebook

In this episode of the MRX Lab podcast from FlexMR, we investigate the research to action divide and look to whether creative reporting techniques can provide a path to closing it. We hone in on advertising and art as two key fields from which to draw inspiration and examine the techniques used to motivate audiences and inspire action.

We look at the role of attention, novelty and emotion in creating a memorable, engaging visual – and contrast how creative reporting techniques perform against more traditional alternatives. The episode concludes with tips and advice on how to get started with the development of new, visual and stimulating formats for presenting research data.

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Presented by: Chris Martin, CMO @ FlexMR (CJ_24K)

For more info on FlexMR, the technology led research agency, visit www.flexmr.net

Or connect via LinkedIn / Twitter / Facebook

In this episode of the MRX Lab podcast from FlexMR, we look at the principles of journalistic ethics set out by the Ethical Journalism Network and the American Press Association. We’ll focus on four key principles in particular: the need to be truthful & accurate, the endeavour to be independent, the importance of loyalty to citizens and, finally, the concept of proportionality.

We’ll also touch on practical tips and advice from journalists on how to engage audiences and tell the right stories to the right people at the right time – a vitally important skill for researchers.

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Presented by: Chris Martin, CMO @ FlexMR (CJ_24K)

For more info on FlexMR, the technology led research agency, visit www.flexmr.net

Or connect via LinkedIn / Twitter / Facebook