Category: tech

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Not Using Online Panels in Your Market Research? It’s Time to Change That

  • October 2, 2023

  • Eyes4Research

The B2C and B2B business landscape is constantly in flux. One thing that has not changed, however, is that making informed decisions is the key to success. Market research plays a pivotal role in providing the audience insights needed to make those important decisions. One research method that stands out as an effective way of helping B2C and B2B businesses gain the valuable audience insights they need is custom online panels

Here is why panel research should be a crucial part of your market research strategy, and how custom online panels offered by data collection agencies like Eyes4Research can help B2B and B2C businesses elevate their research efforts. 

The Power of Panel Research for B2C and B2B Businesses

Panel research involves collecting data from a group of individuals over time. It provides valuable, reliable, and targeted insights that can significantly impact the decision-making process for B2C and B2B businesses. Panel Research has several benefits that can help save time and get the most out of your research initiatives: 

  • Reliable Data Collection: Panelists are often chosen for their demographic or professional relevance, ensuring the data collected is reliable. 
  • Targeted Audience Insights: Custom panels allow B2C and B2C businesses to tailor their research to specific demographics, making sure that they get the exact insights they need. 
  • Cost-Effective Research: panels can be more cost-effective than one-time surveys or focus groups, especially when considering studies that need to take place over a longer period of time. 
  • Quick Turnaround: Data can be collected efficiently, providing B2C and B2B businesses with insights faster than traditional research methods. 

Why Choose a Data Collection Agency for Your Research? 

For B2C and B2B businesses to harness the full potential of custom online panels, partnering with an experienced data collections agency like Eyes4Research is a wise choice. Here’s why: 

  • Expertise in Panel Development: Data collection agencies have experience in creating custom online panels that yield meaningful insights for their clients. 
  • Data Quality Assurance: Rigorous quality control processes ensure that your data is accurate and reliable. 
  • Efficient Data Collection and Management: Agencies streamline the data collection process, saving you time and resources. 

Incorporating panel research, especially custom online panels, into a market research strategy can be a game-changer for B2C and B2B businesses. Eyes4Research specializes in custom panel development, and we work closely with our clients to design panels that align with their research objectives. Our clients are confident knowing that we will handle the data collection process efficiently and securely, from end-to-end. Your next big business move might be just one custom panel away. 
Learn more about market research on the Eyes4Research blog. Eyes4Research also has everything you need to collect high-quality insights from consumers. Our panels are comprised of B2B, B2C, and specialty audiences ready to participate in your next research project. Learn more about our specialty panels here.

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Craft a Winning Brand Strategy by Leveraging Custom Online Panels

  • September 29, 2023

  • Eyes4Research

The current business landscape is dynamic, and the key to building a successful brand lies in understanding audiences like never before. Market research has emerged as the guiding star for B2C and B2B businesses seeking to refine their branding strategies. There are 4 reasons why custom online panels are an invaluable tool in this process: 

  • Tailored Audience: With custom online panels, B2C and B2B brands can curate a specific group of respondents that closely aligns with their target market. This ensures that a brand’s research is relevant and actionable. 
  • Speed and Efficiency: Online panels enable quick data collection and analysis. This agility is crucial in today’s fast-paced B2C and B2B business environments, allowing brands to make informed decisions promptly. 
  • Cost-Effective: Custom online panels are cost-effective compared to traditional research methods. They provide substantial savings without compromising on data quality. 
  • Long-Term Insight Tracking: These panels allow B2C and B2B brands to track changes in consumer behavior over time, providing valuable insights for ongoing brand development. 

Custom Panels + Successful Branding Strategies

As mentioned above, custom online panels can supercharge B2C and B2B brands’ research initiatives. Here is how online panels help brands create winning brand strategies: 

  • Identifying Brands’ Unique Value Proposition: Research helps B2C and B2B brands pinpoint what sets them apart from their competition. This forms the foundation of their branding strategy. 
  • Understanding the Audience: Through detailed audience analysis, B2C and B2B brands can tailor their messaging, visuals, and products to resonate with their target audiences. 
  • Stay Agile: With custom online panels, B2C and B2B brands can adapt to changing consumer preferences and market dynamics quickly. This agility is essential for maintaining a competitive edge. 
  • Data-Driven Decision-Making: Data helps B2C and B2B brands make informed decisions for their branding strategies. Market research provides the insights needed to make these crucial decisions. At Eyes4Research, our custom online panels have helped our clients gain deeper insights into what their audiences want and need, allowing them to refine their branding strategies and make more informed decisions

Market research, driven by custom online panels, is the compass that guides B2C and B2B businesses toward winning branding strategies. By understanding their audiences, staying ahead of the competition, and making data-driven decisions, companies can create a brand that thrives in a marketplace that is constantly evolving. 
Read more about branding and market research on the Eyes4Research blog. Eyes4Research also has everything you need to collect high-quality insights from consumers. Our panels are comprised of B2B, B2C, and specialty audiences ready to participate in your next research project. Learn more about our specialty panels here.

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The Promise and Pitfalls of Autonomous Vehicles For Consumers

  • September 27, 2023

  • Eyes4Research

Moving from a concept that captured the imagination to reality, autonomous vehicles have taken the automotive industry by storm, promising a future of safer, more efficient transportation. However, this revolutionary technology also presents its fair share of challenges. 

Here, we’ll outline the advantages that autonomous vehicles offer, the challenges for audiences, and how market research can guide the industry along this journey and help it stay ahead of this rapidly evolving landscape. 

What is the Potential for Autonomous Vehicles?

  • Safety Revolution: Autonomous vehicles have the potential to significantly reduce accidents caused by human error. Advanced sensors and AI systems can detect and respond to hazards more quickly than human drivers. 
  • Efficiency and Convenience: Self-driving cars can optimize routes, reduce congestion, and provide convenient transportation for those unable to drive due to age or disabilities. 
  • Environmental Benefits: Autonomous vehicles could lead to more efficient traffic flow and reduced fuel consumption, contributing to lower emissions and a greener future. 
  • Economic Impact: The autonomous vehicle industry is poised to create new jobs and drive economic growth through innovations in technology, manufacturing, and services. 

The Concerns About Autonomous Vehicles

  • Safety Issues: Despite their promise, autonomous vehicles still face safety and reliability challenges. High-profile accidents have raised questions about the readiness of this technology for widespread audience use. 
  • Regulatory Hurdles: Developing comprehensive regulations to govern autonomous vehicles is a complex task. Striking the right balance between innovation and safety is a challenge for policymakers. 
  • Infrastructure Needs: Fully realizing the potential of autonomous vehicles requires significant investments in infrastructure, including smart roads and 5G connectivity. 
  • Ethical Dilemmas: Self-driving cars will need to make ethical decisions in emergency situations, decisions that often converge with biases that are built into the technology itself, such as those based on appearance, or skin color. Resolving these dilemmas and determining liability in accidents is a legal and ethical gray area. 

Leveraging Custom Online Panels For Informed Audience Insights

To stay ahead in the autonomous vehicle industry, decision-makers need access to up-to-date audience insights and opinions. This is where custom online panels from an experienced data collection agency like Eyes4Research come into play– here’s how these online panels can help the auto industry stay on top of audience preferences and insights. 

  • Targeted Expertise: Data collection agencies can assemble custom panels composed of experts, industry insiders, and consumers with a specific interest in autonomous vehicles. This ensures that decision-makers are gaining insights from those who truly understand the nuances of this technology. 
  • Timely Feedback: With the rapid evolution of autonomous vehicles, staying informed about the latest developments is crucial. Custom online panels allow industry decision-makers to obtain real-time feedback and opinions from their audience. 
  • Diverse Perspectives: By curating diverse panels, it is possible to gain a comprehensive understanding of the promise and pitfalls of autonomous vehicles from a variety of angles– technical, regulatory, ethical, and audience-oriented. 
  • Efficient Data Collection: Data collection agencies handle the logistics, recruitment, and management of custom online panel members, saving time and resources for in-depth analysis and strategy development. 

The potential for autonomous vehicles is exciting, but the concerns surrounding this new technology are real. To navigate this complex landscape successfully, it is important to gain the insights needed to make informed decisions. Custom online panels, such as those managed by Eyes4Research, can be an invaluable tool for achieving these goals. 

Read more about the automotive industry and technology on the Eyes4Research blog. Eyes4Research also has everything you need to collect high-quality insights from automobile owners. Our panels are comprised of B2B, B2C, and specialty audiences ready to participate in your next research project. Learn more about our specialty panels here.

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Research Community vs Online Panel – What’s the Difference? 

  • September 25, 2023

  • Eyes4Research

Market research is the compass that guides B2C and B2B businesses through the changing landscape of audience preferences and market dynamics. To fully harness the power of market research effectively, B2C and B2B businesses need to understand the research tools at their disposal. Two prominent options are Research Communities and Online Panels

Understanding Research Communities

Research communities are engaging platforms that encourage ongoing interactions between researchers and participants. Think of research communities as the heartbeat of your research strategy, providing a space for in-depth insights. Here are some points to know about research communities: 

  • Engagement: Research communities thrive on engagement. Participants become familiar faces, creating a comfortable environment for audiences, where they can share authentic opinions. 
  • Insights: These communities are a treasure trove of insights for B2C and B2B businesses. Over time, research communities can uncover deep audience motivations and preferences.  
  • Ongoing Interaction: Research communities allow continuous feedback and discussion, making them ideal for monitoring trends

Exploring Online Panels

Online panels, on the other hand, are similar to well-stocked libraries. They offer B2C and B2B businesses access to a wide range of respondents, allowing for quicker data collection. This is why online panels stand out: 

  • Access: Online panels provide access to a diverse pool of participants, making them suitable for quick surveys or broader demographic studies. 
  • Efficiency: Online panels are efficient tools for collecting large-scale data, making them ideal for quantitative research. 
  • Speed: With online panels, B2C and B2B businesses can collect data swiftly, ensuring that they stay ahead in fast-paced market conditions. 

The Crucial Differences Between Research Communities and Online Panels

  • Structure: Research communities are organic and engaging, while online panels are more structured and efficient. 
  • Engagement vs. Efficiency: Choose research communities for deep insights and engagement, and online panels for quick data collection. 
  • Data Collection: Communities offer ongoing interaction, while panels focus on collecting data efficiently. 

At Eyes4Research, we understand the importance of tailored solutions to market research. That’s why we provide our B2C and B2B clients with access to custom online panels that combine the best aspects of research communities and online panels. 

Our panelists are chosen to match our client’s research needs, ensuring the highest-quality data possible. Our custom online panels adapt to our B2C and B2B clients’ research objectives, from in-depth studies to quick data collection projects. 

Market research is not a one-size-fits-all endeavor. Understanding the differences between research communities and online panels is essential for B2C and B2B businesses so they can select the correct tool for their unique research goals. 

Read more about market research on the Eyes4Research blog. Eyes4Research also has everything you need to collect high-quality insights from consumers. Our panels are comprised of B2B, B2C, and specialty audiences ready to participate in your next research project. Learn more about our specialty panels here.

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Artificial Intelligence in Academia

  • September 19, 2023

  • Eyes4Research

The emergence of generative artificial intelligence (AI) platforms, such as ChatGPT, is already having major repercussions on society and will certainly have many more in the future. Experts are claiming that generative AI will be able to do a plethora of tasks, including blog writing, instruction manual writing, computer coding, marketing and sales, R&D, and even poetry. Generative AI’s influence is sending shockwaves across multiple sectors of the economy and it looks poised to make an even bigger impact in academia. How well university administrators, faculty, and students get ahead of the trend will be important as it will impact the quality of education students receive in the future.

Today, AI generally refers to software or machines that can learn and be utilized for a number of everyday applications such as search engines, virtual assistant, language translation, facial recognition, and more. Without getting into the complex details and technological nuances, generative AI is a more advanced form of AI that is capable of writing texts based on prompts. There are many exciting possibilities for the use of generative AI in academia that will directly affect administrators, faculty, and students by determining eliminating some things but also creating new opportunities in other spaces. So let’s take a look at how AI made its way into academia; some of the benefits and drawbacks it offers administrators, faculty, and students; and some potential future trends.

AI in Education

AI has been around on the periphery of the education sector for many years, with programs such as Grammarly giving students and professors an advantage in their work; but AI has many more uses beyond simply helping one write a better paper. Despite its potential ability to be used to help students take shortcuts, many university administrators, professors, and researchers have embraced AI as a useful tool, so much so that it has even been given its own term and abbreviation, AI in education (AIEd).

Many professors have come to view AI as a beneficial teaching aide that can make their jobs easier but not detract from the quality of their students’ educations. For example, AI can be used to create different summaries of a book, giving students a diverse range of viewpoints and scenarios to consider. Along those same lines, AI can also help professors identify the most effective teaching methods for specific classes (traditional lecture, small group discussion, laboratory, etc.) and can also automate more repetitive tasks such as grading. These and more features of AI can be beneficial to professors and their students, as it gives teachers time to focus on tackling more difficult concepts in class, which will challenge the students and ultimately make them better students in the long term. AI will also give professors more time to dedicate to research and other endeavors that will raise their professional profile and the profile of their universities.

AI is also being utilized in the academic publishing space in a number of roles with different levels of success. AI has been used as a judge and detector of manuscripts that are worthy of being published by a particular journal or publisher, and generative AI has proven to be a much more accurate plagiarism detector than standard programs

For many researchers in the hard sciences, writing reports and articles is the most laborious and tedious part of their work, which can create barriers to advancing in the field. Tech-orientated but writing adverse researchers can utilize generative AI platforms such as automatic writing evaluation (AWE) to see if their written results are on par with those of their colleagues and they can also use it to asses their students’ papers. AI can also be used to write abstracts of articles and speed up the overall writing process, but it’s not yet a miracle technology for academics who need help with their writing skills. The AI still has to be fed the information, and as will be seen later, it is so far only limited to basic or low-level texts. 

Students and Generative AI

As much as AIEd will benefit researchers and professors in their work, the extent to which generative AI will be adopted in academia may be determined by students. After all, students are the consumers in the education space and the extent to which they utilize different aspects of AI will play a major role in its adoption. Student use of generative AI will go far beyond having the technology write papers, but will expose students to new, effective ways of learning.

One way that generative AI will benefit students is through the idea known as “contextualized learning.” Although this may sound like a concept that was drawn up in an academic ivory tower, it is a relatively simple application of AI. With contextualized learning, AI platforms will tailor learning plans and lessons to each student’s needs. The AI will be able to identify learning gaps and problem areas of the students, allowing the professors to act accordingly. 

AI can also help students spend their time away from class more productively. Intelligent tutoring systems (ITS) is an AI tutoring platform that helps students prepare for exams, writing assignments, and other assessments by focusing on their strengths and mitigating their weaknesses. As platforms such as ITS develop and progress in the coming years, more students will discover their utility, possibly leading to better grades and test scores in the classroom. 

The Drawbacks of AI in Academia

There’s no doubt that AI offers a plethora of benefits for administrators, faculty, and students in academia, but this will not come without some growing pains. One of the major obstacles facing AIEd is that it’s so new and therefore dependent upon how widely consumers (students), universities, and other institutions accept it. It’s important to know that the major force currently driving AI in academia isn’t necessarily the students, administrators, or faculty, but the private companies creating the AIEd platforms. Currently, there is a bottleneck between the producers of AIEd and the consumers, with private companies noting that there are currently too many customers for the small number of AIEd companies to serve. This problem will likely solve itself as more companies get involved in the AIEd space and overall demand for AI platforms plateaus, but there are other problems that need to be addressed before widespread acceptance of AI in academia can happen.

Currently, most AI platforms are limited in their scope and are not capable of completing “higher level” tasks, which can be a benefit or drawback depending upon one’s perspective. AEId platforms are unable to locate obscure citations and possibly even more interestingly, they often cannot locate newer publications. Overall, AI is also not yet to the point where it can articulate deeper, abstract reasoning. This can be a hinderance to researchers who need to quickly publish, but a benefit for professors who teach upper level undergrad and graduate courses, as they know the papers will not be written by AI. It is also important to note that many AI programs are written with a self-censorship feature, so using these programs will create problems for papers about more controversial topics. 

The most obvious drawback that the widespread adoption of AIEd faces is the number of real and perceived ethical issues associated with the technology. Unfortunately, ethics is not a major concern for most of the education-technology (Ed-Tech) companies building AI systems, which some scholars believe can lead to a number of problems, including the following: the discrimination against some groups because of a lack of data, the lack of personal data protection, cheating by students and plagiarism by scholars, and a stigma placed on scholars who use AI, even properly. Many of these barriers to widespread adoption will likely be rectified in the coming years, opening new opportunities for universities, scholars, students, and even entrepreneurs. 

Future Trends of AI in Academia 

Like or hate AI, most who work in academia are coming to the realization that the technology will likely play some role in the space in the future. Based on what has already happened, how AI has affected other sectors, and what some notable tech researchers believe, there are a few notable trends to keep an eye on. First, expect classrooms to look very different thanks to AI. Watch for AI to assist, not replace professors, ultimately allowing them to give more time to students and to personalize lesson plans and assessments as mentioned earlier. 

As AI generally and AIEd in particular progress in the next few years, more universities will offer classes, majors, and possibly entire departments dedicated to AI studies. The University of Rochester as well as other tech-centric schools already offer classes on building AI systems, and as the technology becomes more accessible expect the “AI studies” trend to gain momentum, eventually making its way to public universities across the country. This trend could be vital to keep American students and workers competitive with an increasingly educated and global workforce.

Another important trend in AIEd to watch out for is students’ greater autonomy and control over their academic and personal data. Although the idea of “Big Brother” is inevitably raised during any conversation about AI, some experts argue that if properly used, and if students are adequately educated, then students can have more access and control over their data. As our world generally becomes more digitized, expect this to be one of the more important discussions surrounding AI in the coming years.

Finally, an important future AI trend to follow is its entrepreneurial opportunities. Investment in EdTech companies more than doubled in 2020 from the previous years, and as discussed earlier there’s now a bottleneck of consumers who want AIEd technology. Some major EdTech companies that are jumping into the AI space include Third Space Learning, which is a British company that uses AI learning apps such as Duolingo and Babbel in its curriculum. The long-established American EdTech company, Pearson, is transitioning to a digital format and new derives 66% of its revenue from digital products. Pearson also claims to have developed the world’s first AI powered calculator, Aida

The story of AI in academia is just starting to be written and it will no doubt contain several more chapters before it’s completed. AI presents many opportunities and a few drawbacks for university administrators, professors, researchers, and perhaps most importantly, the students. In order to be successful in the global marketplace all will have to learn about the nuances of and how to operate AI in the future, and universities that understand the trends and how to apply them to their students/consumers will likely see long-term success. 

About the author:

An industry leader and influencer – Rudly Raphael specializes in all aspects of research logistical design involving quantitative methodology,  implementing internal system infrastructure to streamline business processes, channelling communication and developing innovative research solutions to ensure Eyes4Research remains a competitive force in the marketplace. An entrepreneur, inventor (patent holder), blogger and writer – his articles have been published in various magazines such as Medium, Ebony Magazine, Bussiness2Community and also cited in various journals and academic publications. 

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The Virtual Concert Revolution: Insights for a New Era of Entertainment

  • September 15, 2023

  • Eyes4Research

During the last few years, the music industry has witnessed a transformational shift with the rise of virtual concerts. Powered by technology, these digital performances have taken center stage, offering a unique experience to the music-loving audience worldwide. But what is driving this trend, and how can B2C businesses in the entertainment space leverage data to navigate this trend effectively? 

Why Virtual Concerts Are on the Rise

Virtual concerts have become immensely popular for several reasons: 

  • Accessibility: Virtual concerts transcend geographical barriers, allowing fans from across the globe to attend live performances from the comfort of their homes. 
  • Interactivity: Many virtual concerts offer interactive elements that are exciting for fans, such as chat rooms and virtual meet-and-greets with artists, enhancing the overall experience for audiences. 
  • Cost-Efficiency: Virtual concerts often come with lower ticket prices, making them more accessible to a broader audience. 
  • Safety: The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of virtual concerts as a safe alternative to traditional live events. 

The Role of Market Research in the Virtual Concert Space

To capitalize on the virtual concert trend, B2C businesses in the entertainment space need to understand their audience’s preferences and behaviors. This is where a specialized data collection agency comes into play–here’s how they can help:

  • Audience Insights: A data collection agency like Eyes4Research can gather crucial demographic data on the virtual concert audience, helping B2C companies tailor their marketing strategies. 
  • Content Optimization: By analyzing audience feedback and engagement data, B2C businesses can fine-tune their virtual concert content to maximize audience impact. 
  • Pricing Strategies: Data-driven insights can inform pricing strategies, helping B2C businesses strike the right balance between accessibility and profitability. 

At Eyes4Research, we use advanced tools to collect and analyze data, providing our B2C and B2B clients in with real-time audience insights with our custom Entertainment online panel. We tailor our data collection strategies to fit our client’s specific needs, ensuring they receive the most actionable, and reliable insights. 

The rise of virtual concerts is reshaping the music industry. To make informed decisions and thrive in this new era of entertainment, B2C businesses must empower themselves with the power of data by partnering with specialized data collection agencies. 
Read more about market research and its connection to the entertainment industry on the Eyes4Research blog. Eyes4Research also has everything you need to collect high-quality insights from consumers who are active on social media platforms. Our panels are comprised of B2B, B2C, and specialty audiences ready to participate in your next research project. Learn more about our specialty panels here.

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The Future Internet Is Now: Web3

  • September 12, 2023

  • Eyes4Research

When the World Wide Web became publicly available in 1991, it revolutionized the way we work and play and perhaps more importantly how we consume information and goods. The early internet was relatively primitive and boring, but it soon evolved to be dominated by ecommerce and then social media platforms. Many tech and business experts believe that we are at the precipice of a new internet era, often referred to as “Web3,” for the third iteration of the internet. Proponents say that Web3 will be a decentralized internet that runs on blockchain technology, and brands that know how to utilize it to connect with their consumers will gain an advantage in the new tech-driven economy.

Gavin Wood, the founder of proof-of-stake cryptocurrency Polkadot and cofounder of Ethereum, first coined the term Web3 in 2014 to describe the increasingly decentralized internet based on blockchain technology, which he helped to create. Obviously, the definition is a bit broad and open to interpretation to a certain extent, so in the subsequent years others have added to Wood’s definition. As technology has advanced since 2014, and more people have become familiar with blockchain technology, other important elements of Web3 that’ve been identified are its trustless nature – which may sound negative, but in this context it’s not and will be explained more later – and users/consumers control over their personal information

The trends suggest that although there are many barriers to the complete adoption of Web3, where it is adopted, investors, brands, and consumers will reap incredible benefits. Consumers will enjoy the control they will gain over their personal data, while brands will find new ways to connect with their loyal consumers. So let’s take a look at how Web3 started, where it is today, and how consumers can expect from this new iteration of the internet.

How the Internet Became Web3

Tech experts generally divide the history of the internet into three phases. The first phase, known as Web 1.0, includes the period from just before the World Wide Web went public in 1991 to 2004. This era of the internet was marked by static web pages that were primarily informational and not interactive, although some of the earliest ecommerce sites, such as Amazon, began during this era. The second era, Web 2.0, began in the mid-2000s with the growth of social media, blogs, and ecommerce. The internet became much more interactive and the technology was driven by smartphones and cloud computing. As blockchain technology became more widespread by the late 2010s, experts have argued that we entered the latest version of the internet around that time.

As we enter this new internet paradigm, its success will depend on its widespread adoption, which will largely be contingent upon how well consumers understand the technology. Web3 will be based on blockchain technology, which may sound complex at first but it’s really straightforward. Blockchains are online storage systems that use encryption and distributed computing to protect the data stored on them. Encryption gives only limited people access to the data, while the distributed or decentralized element means that shards of data need to match in order for data packets to be retrieved or transactions to take place. In theory, and so far in practice, this form of internet creates a “trustless” format, whereby users are not forced to trust a company or central authority to protect their data or ensure that transactions are legitimate. Blockchain technology has opened an array of opportunities for investors and consumers, some of which are currently being realized.

Real World Web3 Applications

Cryptocurrencies have led the transition to Web3, with Bitcoin, the world’s first cryptocurrency being released on January 9, 2009. Bitcoin’s potential application for Web3 investors and consumers were quickly realized, as it remains the number one cryptocurrency by market cap because of its utility as money, a store of value, and as a financial instrument. But as much as Bitcoin may’ve opened the Web3 door, it’s the number two cryptocurrency by market cap, Ethereum, which will likely play a bigger role in the new internet paradigm.

The Ethereum blockchain has proven to be highly adaptable and a destination for businesses and consumers who use Web3. Everyday new “tokens” are being created that allow users to access the Ethereum blockchain for decentralized finance, smart contracts, and non-fungible tokens (NFTs). NFTs are digital art that are “minted” as originals and stored on the blockchain. As strange as the concept of NFTs may seem to many, they’re gaining in popularity and market cap. Investment bank Jefferies that NFTs will have a market value of over $85 billion by 2025

Smart contracts, decentralized finance (DeFi), and decentralized autonomous organizations (DAOs) will also play a role in the emerging world of Web3. Smart contracts are contracts that are stored on a blockchain and can only be completed or fulfilled when certain requirements are met, while DAOs are companies that are bound by rules coded into the blockchains they use. These two concepts are combined when DAOs store data, such as retail prices, and contracts with wholesalers on blockchains, with the advantage being they are invulnerable to standard hackers

When DAOs and traditional companies use blockchains for business purposes, it is referred to as decentralized finance (DeFi). DeFi can include person-to-person or company-to-company transaction, with the primary benefit being that banks are bypassed. Although transaction fees are part of every blockchain transaction, they are often small and consumers only pay for the transactions they make. As more consumers are learning the ropes of Web3 and blockchain technology, companies and brands are starting to pay attention.

Some Brands That Have Adopted Web3 and DeFi

Due to the nature of Web3, it isn’t immediately apparent how many brands have adopted the new internet paradigm, but a quick look reveals that it is catching steam. Microsoft, AT&T, and Overstock.com have all begun accepting crypto for bill and merchandise payments, perhaps acting as the vanguard of DeFi and Web3 adoption among major brands. But a number of lesser known companies are also making inroads in the world of Web3.

Among the brands using Web3 and DeFi to watch out for the in coming years are the blockchain based social platform, Steemit, and the blockchain based supply chain, Everledger. Another company to follow is the decentralized exchange trading market, Augur. The reason why these three companies are potentially poised for success is because they all combine the new technology of Web3 with goods and services current consumers want. 

Future Trends and Consumer Benefits of Using Web3

There’s no doubt that Web3 adoption will set the tone for technology advances in the coming decades, but brands that know how to utilize it, such as those mentioned earlier, will use it to connect with their consumers. The trustless element of blockchain technology gives plenty of freedom to the consumer in many different ways. For example, consumers will be able to trade online apps on blockchains using smart contracts, cutting out the middleman in the process. Web3 also has the ability to give consumers more control over their data.

Under the current internet paradigm, personal data is stored on servers that are vulnerable to hackers, but on Web3, data can be stored on blockchains that can only be released if the owner allows it. In addition to enhanced security, blockchain data storage will cut down on spam and those who use it will be able to say goodbye to third party cookies forever! 

One of the most important future trends of Web3 will be how it connects brands with its consumers, by building more trust and loyalty. Because 76% of consumers don’t know what companies are doing with their personal data, the adoption of Web3 gives brands an opening. Perhaps somewhat ironically, the trustless aspect of the blockchain can provide a way for brands to rebuild trust with their customers, although it will require consumers to adopt the new technology. Brands can also leverage the new technology in other unique ways to build customer loyalty.

Nike has recently combined blockchain technology and the metaverse – which is considered another part of Web3 – to sell virtual sneakers in the virtual world, Roblox. Fashion brand Dolce & Gabbana recently combined the metaverse and NFTs to connect with its consumers by auctioning a nine-piece collection of NFTs for $6 million, which included a suit that the auction winner can wear in the metaverse. Brands can also issue NFTs and/or blockchain tokens as a way for their consumers to access special online events or deals, ultimately replacing standard loyalty points

How well brands migrate loyalty rewards programs to Web3 will likely play a much bigger role in the retail space in the future, giving consumers more power over how they store and use those points. An average consumer is enrolled in 18 loyalty programs, but they are only actively engaged in less than half of them, meaning lost points for the consumer and fewer chances for brands to engage their customers. Web3 technology can bring customer loyalty programs to the next level by offering digital rewards that are uniquely ownable, tradeable, and collectable, transforming brand-customer transactions into a more immersive experience

Of course the adoption of Web3 faces some barriers. Most of the big tech companies have no incentive to give up the power they hold over Web 2.0 and the current US government is hostile- to crypto generally and appears to know little, or care, about blockchain technology’s wider uses. Consumers are also slow to learn about what many perceive as an arcane form of technology, but many of these barriers existed before other major technology revolutions throughout history. Web3 may not replace the current iteration of the internet overnight, but brands that recognize its value as a tool to connect with consumers will find that it will be useful in the coming years.

About the author:

An industry leader and influencer – Rudly Raphael specializes in all aspects of research logistical design involving quantitative methodology,  implementing internal system infrastructure to streamline business processes, channelling communication and developing innovative research solutions to ensure Eyes4Research remains a competitive force in the marketplace. An entrepreneur, inventor (patent holder), blogger and writer – his articles have been published in various magazines such as Medium, Ebony Magazine, Bussiness2Community and also cited in various journals and academic publications. 

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How Uncertainty Surprisingly Shapes Consumer Decision-Making

  • September 11, 2023

  • Eyes4Research

Uncertainty has become a constant in our lives. From economic fluctuations to global health emergencies, consumers are continually faced with unpredictable circumstances that influence their choices. As a result, understanding how uncertainty impacts consumer decision-making is crucial for B2C businesses that are striving to stay one step ahead of the competition. 

image 5 - How Uncertainty Surprisingly Shapes Consumer Decision-Making

The Impact of Uncertainty 

We all know that uncertainty breeds caution. When consumers perceive an uncertain future, they tend to become more conservative with their spending habits. They are likely to postpone major purchases, opt for lower-cost alternatives, or save rather than invest. It’s this cautious approach that can significantly affect B2C industries ranging from travel and hospitality to luxury goods. 

The Role of Market Research

Here is where an experienced market research agency can make all the difference. In times of uncertainty, having access to accurate and up-to-date consumer insights is invaluable. A professional research agency can provide B2C businesses with the following: 

  1. Consumer Behavior Analysis: Market research agencies can track shifts in consumer behavior, helping B2C businesses understand what products or services are in demand during uncertain times. 
  2. Competitive Intelligence: B2C businesses can stay ahead of their competition by gaining insights into what their rivals are doing and how they are adapting to uncertain market conditions. 
  3. Consumer Sentiment Analysis: B2C businesses can gauge consumer sentiment through surveys and social media monitoring. They can understand how their target audience is feeling and adjust their strategies accordingly. 
  4. Forecasting and Scenario Planning: Market research agencies can assist B2C businesses in creating multiple scenarios for their businesses, allowing them to prepare for various outcomes. 

At Eyes4Research, we provide our B2C clients with the tools they need to navigate uncertainty. We specialize in creating and managing custom online panels for both B2B and B2C audiences that provide valuable insights that can empower companies with data-driven decision-making. 

Uncertainty is an inescapable force in the current consumer landscape. But with the right market research partner, B2C businesses can turn that uncertainty into opportunities for growth and success.
Read more about market research and consumer behavior on the Eyes4Research blog. Eyes4Research also has everything B2C companies need to collect high-quality insights from consumers. Our panels are comprised of B2B, B2C, and specialty audiences ready to participate in your next research project. Learn more about our specialty panels here.

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Evolving Media Consumption Habits and What It Means for Businesses

  • September 6, 2023

  • Eyes4Research

The way audiences are consuming media is undergoing a significant transformation. With smartphones, social media, and streaming platforms, audiences’ interaction with media has evolved, presenting both challenges and exciting opportunities for B2C businesses and marketers alike. 

image 3 - Evolving Media Consumption Habits and What It Means for Businesses

This shift means that it is necessary for B2C brands to reevaluate their strategies so they can effectively engage and connect with their target audiences. The B2C businesses that succeed will learn exactly how their consumers interact with media (and what they like and do not like) by investing in market research to gain valuable insights from their target audiences. 

The Rise of Digital Platforms

Traditional media channels such as television and radio are no longer the sole sources of information and entertainment. The explosion of digital platforms has given audiences the power to access content on their own terms, and on their own schedules. 

Streaming services, podcasts, social media, and online news outlets have become the go-to sources for information and entertainment.  B2C Businesses and marketers have been forced to recognize these as essential channels to reach and engage their target audiences. 

On-Demand Consumption

One key aspect of the evolution of media consumption habits is the preference for on-demand content. Audiences want to consume content when and where it suits them. This has led to the popularity of binge-watching TV shows, personalized playlists, and curated social media feeds. For B2C businesses and marketers, this means creating content that is not only relevant and engaging but also easily accessible across different devices and platforms. 

The Role of Social Media

Social media has emerged as a powerful tool for connecting with audiences on a personal level. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter allow B2C businesses to interact directly with audiences, encouraging brand loyalty and authenticity. 

However, the fast-paced nature of social media and the trends that are created on these platforms require strategies that are agile, consistent engagement, and a deep understanding of the target audience. 

What are the implications for B2C Businesses and Marketers? 

The Need for a Multi-Platform Approach

To effectively engage audiences, B2C businesses need to diversify their media presence. This includes maintaining a strong online presence, optimizing content for mobile devices, and exploring emerging platforms. 

Data-Driven Insights

Evolving media consumption habits generate a wealth of data. Marketers can leverage analytics to gain insights into audience preferences, behaviors, and engagement patterns. When marketers partner with an experienced data collection agency like Eyes4Research, they are able to gain insights from specialty online panels that can inform content creation as well as help tailor marketing campaigns that will resonate with their target audiences. 

Content Personalization

With audiences seeking tailored experiences, B2C businesses need to focus on content personalization. Utilizing data and analytics gathered from custom online panels, marketers can create content that attracts specific audience segments, enhancing the opportunities for meaningful engagement. 

Agile Adaptation

The rapid changes in media consumption habits require B2C businesses and marketers to be adaptable. Flexibility in strategies and the ability to pivot based on emerging trends are essential for staying relevant. Eyes4Research has access to the types of custom online panels that help B2C companies stay ahead of the curve and see trends as they emerge, not after. 

Evolving media consumption habits have ushered in a new era of audience engagement and interaction. B2C businesses and marketers that understand and embrace these changes, as well as invest in market research to learn how their audiences consume media will gain a competitive advantage. 
Read more about media and marketing on the Eyes4Research blog. Eyes4Research also has everything you need to collect high-quality insights from consumers. Our panels are comprised of B2B, B2C, and specialty audiences ready to participate in your next research project. Learn more about our specialty panels here.

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Leveraging AI in Copywriting and Research

  • September 1, 2023

  • Eyes4Research

The artificial intelligence (AI) revolution is changing the world, especially the way we work. AI has the potential to end many jobs, but it can also make some jobs more efficient and help brands expand their reach to wider audiences. Many believe that writers are one of the professions most in danger of being replaced by AI, although a closer look reveals that AI can be leveraged to make writing, especially copywriting, more engaging and productive. Brands that understand how AI can be utilized to make their message clearer and more memorable, and how to distinguish AI writers from human writers, will find they are better connected to their core consumers, ultimately creating a better customer experience.

image - Leveraging AI in Copywriting and Research

The release of ChatGPT in late 2022 led to increased public interest in the potential of generative AI, as companies and brands have already been designing how to use this new technology for some time. With that said, not all businesses understand AI and those who do are struggling to harness its potential. A report by KPMG shows that 94% of the businesses surveyed indicated that they will need to adopt AI to remain competitive but nearly the same percent question AI’s trustworthiness

These numbers indicate that the technology of AI and attitudes surrounding it haven’t quite synchronized yet, which can be a problem in some ways but present new opportunities in other ways, because those who stay ahead of the curve and learn how to leverage AI for their brands will stand to benefit. Copywriting is a major component of any brand’s success, as it relates their messages and connects them with loyal as well as new consumers. An examination of the background and trends in AI and copywriting reveals that instead of ending the careers of writers, AI has the potential to elevate their work, make brands more visible, and ultimately provide consumers with better products.

AI and Writing So Far

Because AI technology has only been made available to the public recently, and it’s constantly evolving, its applications are still being worked out in terms of copywriting. With that said, programs known as “AI writers” are available and have made an impact. AI writers can write texts and help writers accelerate the writing process, but they still have to be fed considerable amounts of information. Writers have used AI writers to partially or completely write blog articles as well as a number of other academic and instructional content. 

AI has also proven to be helpful in research by identifying trends that may be of interest to specific reader demographics. Generally speaking, AI software can be utilized by brands and companies as efficiently as academics use it and in a way that sets human writers apart from AI. As AI is becoming a useful tool for brands to connect with consumers, its use in the private sector has acquired a unique term – AI as a service (AIaaS).

Benefits of Leveraging AIaaS

Small and medium sized business may find the most benefits from AIaaS in the short term, which will ultimately benefit copywriters as well as consumers. AIaaS can improve companies’ efficiency by saving time and money while maintaining a consistent brand image. Because branding is important, even for small companies, AI’s ability to stay on message across multiple platforms and media will help. AI will also be able to provide better search engine optimization (SEO) for brands by focusing text around particular keywords in a way that human writers can’t. This will make a brand’s webpage, documents, blogs, and articles easier for consumers to find. 

Finally, AI will improve the quality of copy and help copywriters improve their craft. A major problem that brands face is poorly written articles that have been outsourced for lower costs. Often, these are short, simple articles to begin with, so their low quality and unreadability can be a major turnoff for readers, but AI can write such easy articles at a fraction of the cost. AI can also be utilized by more seasoned writers to overcome writer’s block by offering suggestions on anything from content to grammar. 

All of this will create a better user experience for consumers, as it will make their navigation through web content and other written media much easier. Also, when used effectively, AIaaS will likely reduce costs for companies, which they can pass on to their consumers. Clearly, copywriting AI can offer brands, writers, and consumers many benefits, but there are some limitations and drawbacks to consider.

Limitations of AI in Copywriting

Currently, most AI writing programs focus on editing and revision with few offering users or writers help about more nuanced details of the writing process, including proper research techniques, flow, and adjusting copy for different audiences. 

Another problem that brands and consumers may face is distinguishing between AI and human written content. As AI improves, it has become more difficult to determine the difference at times. As an example, OpenAI, the company that created ChatGPT, no longer offers it AI classifier/detector due to its “low rate of accuracy.” With that said, some detectors are more accurate than others and have been programed to “look for” an abundance of common words in a text – such as “the,” “it,” or “is,” – versus more erudite words. The rarer the word, the greater the chance the text was written by a human

Future Trends in AI Copywriting and AIaaS

Companies that already use AI in their day-to-day operations have found that AIaaS is very efficient at doing one task versus several tasks. As brands learn this, look for them to assign AI to more copywriting tasks, including translation. The AI program Wordtune uses natural language processing (NLP) to translate complete texts from other languages into English. So far, the content that Wordtune has created is far ahead of Google Translate and other similar programs because it can translate much larger blocks of much more complex texts. 

AI programs such as Wordtune will allow writers to put their ideas into any language, making copywriting a more global profession. This can apply equally to native English speakers who are writing non-English content, which will offer brands many new opportunities. For example, a brand has a great new product and some captivating content to go with it, but no one in the company can write or speak Mandarin, but by using an AI translator the company can instantly gain access to potentially millions more consumers.

Another trend to expect in the AIaaS space in the coming years is more transparency. This trend will probably begin in academia before making its way into the business world where consumers will demand to know if content they are reading or purchasing was produced by a human or AI. Because of this, expect to see more texts with watermarks and other signifiers that they were written wholly or partially by AI. 

Finally, expect businesses to leverage the process of detecting if content was written by a human or AI. As more businesses and consumers demand to know the difference between AI generated or human written content, more businesses will fill the space to meet that need. The successful businesses though, will have to keep up with the technology by creating effective programs, which may be time consuming and expensive. 

The advent of AI has led many to believe that it will eliminate many jobs, especially content copywriters. Although it’s true that copywriting will never be the same thanks to AI, forward thinking brands can use it as leverage to create better content that successfully connects them to a greater consumer base. The space of AIaaS will also offer consumers greater savings and more opportunities to connect with their favorite brands and develop new relationships with brands they’ve found through AI.

About the author:

An industry leader and influencer – Rudly Raphael specializes in all aspects of research logistical design involving quantitative methodology,  implementing internal system infrastructure to streamline business processes, channelling communication and developing innovative research solutions to ensure Eyes4Research remains a competitive force in the marketplace. An entrepreneur, inventor (patent holder), blogger and writer – his articles have been published in various magazines such as Medium, Ebony Magazine, Bussiness2Community and also cited in various journals and academic publications. 

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