Update from Debrah Harding, Managing Director of MRS, at IQCS Working Forum
The recent IQCS Working Forum was a great success, with strong attendance from key representatives across various IQCS member companies. We extend our sincere thanks to Debrah Harding, Managing Director of the Market Research Society (MRS), for her insightful presentation, which provided valuable updates on critical industry developments, including data quality initiatives, AI standards, and the MRS Inclusion Pledge.
MRS Update from Debrah Harding August 2024
1. Data Quality Initiatives
- Debrah informed us that MRS is placing a strong emphasis on improving data quality within the market research sector.
- She highlighted the Global Data Quality (GDQ) initiative, which has already produced significant outputs such as a data quality glossary and guidance on reducing fraud in survey research.
- Key techniques discussed for improving data quality included script-driven checks, open-end checks, technical pre-survey checks, and other methods designed to enhance data integrity.
2. Standards and Professionalism
- Debrah emphasized the importance of maintaining high standards and professionalism across the sector.
- She reviewed key components such as the MRS Code of Conduct, company partner accreditation, and individual membership.
- Debrah also mentioned upcoming updates to standards, particularly the inclusion of AI standards and the systematic review of ISO 20252, which will now incorporate considerations for AI, automation, and sustainability.
3. Inclusion and Diversity
- Debrah introduced the MRS Inclusion Pledge, stressing MRS’s commitment to diversity and representation within the research sector.
- She outlined key commitments, including addressing pay disparities, improving recruitment practices to enhance representation, and fostering inclusive work environments.
- She also noted ongoing initiatives like the Market Research Apprenticeship and mentoring programs designed to support talent and inclusivity within the industry.
4. Climate and Sustainability
- Debrah presented the MRS Climate Pledge, which focuses on reducing the market research industry’s carbon footprint.
- She discussed the four key commitments of the pledge: collaboration, transparency, reduction, and tracking.
- Actionable steps shared included improving energy efficiency, reducing business travel emissions, and switching to renewable electricity suppliers.
5. AI and Data Protection
- Debrah provided an update on the evolving landscape of AI legislation, highlighting the differences between the UK and EU approaches.
- She emphasized the importance of ethical AI usage, particularly in maintaining transparency, fairness, and privacy.
- Debrah mentioned the upcoming Digital Information and Smart Data Bill in the UK, which will likely incorporate elements from the previous Data Protection and Digital Information Bill, along with new standards for AI and data protection.
6. Next Steps and Ongoing Initiatives
- Debrah indicated that MRS is actively working on updating its standards and guidance based on feedback from the sector.
- She noted that revisions to the ISO 20252 standard and the AI guidance are in progress, with a focus on sustainability and the integration of new technologies.
- Debrah also highlighted MRS’s ongoing engagement with governmental bodies, including discussions with the Home Office about designating research fraud as a crime and efforts to influence the new Digital Information and Smart Data Bill.
Debrah concluded by reaffirming MRS’s commitment to leading the market research industry through these comprehensive initiatives. She encouraged all members to stay engaged with these efforts and to reach out with any feedback or questions.
For more information and to review the presentation, please click the link below:
MRS Update from Debrah Harding August 2024
We also want to express our gratitude to RONIN International for generously providing their meeting space. The event wrapped up in true research style, with drinks and pizza at a nearby pub. A big thank you to Gill Wareing and Penny Steele for organizing the forum and the drinks afterwards!
