Key Themes of ISO 20252
Planning, Delivery and Reporting on Projects and Research Work
The standard includes comprehensive requirements for the delivery of market research projects including managing the relationship with the clients, working with research participants, conduct around incentives, and the competence of personnel.
Information Security
ISO 20252 recognizes the importance of information security within the Market Research Industry, which is particularly relevant where organizations hold or process large volumes of personal identifiable information (PII).
Subcontracting
The standard addresses the use of subcontractors and offers ISO 20252 Certification as a way to manage risks in the supply chain. Alternatively service providers should ensure subcontractors meet the requirements through an agreement, documentary evidence or audit.
Legal & Other Requirements
The standard requires organizations to identify and address any legal requirements applicable to their work.
Statement of Applicability
The 2019 version of ISO 20252 introduced a requirement to produce a Statement of Applicability to attest to at least one of the standard’s annexes.
Annexes
Annex A — Sampling including access panels;
Annex B — Fieldwork;
Annex C — Physical observation;
Annex D — Digital observation;
Annex E — Self completion;
Annex F — Data management and processing.
Benefits of ISO 20252
By being ISO 20252 certified, your organization not only demonstrates its dedication to quality but also positions itself as a trusted leader in the field of research and analytics.
1. Enhanced Credibility and Trust
- Certification demonstrates your organization’s commitment to quality and transparency.
- Builds trust with clients and stakeholders, showing that you adhere to internationally recognized standards.
2. Improved Quality and Consistency
- Ensures standardized processes for research and data analysis, leading to more reliable and accurate results.
- Reduces errors and inconsistencies in research projects.
3. Competitive Advantage
- Differentiates your organization in a competitive market.
- Appeals to clients who prioritize working with certified and reliable service providers.
4. Better Client Satisfaction
- Helps deliver consistent, high-quality research outputs that meet or exceed client expectations.
- Enhances client confidence in your processes and insights.
5. Operational Efficiency
- Encourages the development of efficient processes and workflows.
- Reduces redundancies and streamlines research practices.
6. Risk Management
- Identifies and mitigates risks in research operations.
- Ensures compliance with legal and ethical standards, reducing potential liabilities.
7. Global Recognition
- ISO 20252 is an internationally recognized standard, making it easier to work with global clients.
- Demonstrates your ability to operate on a global scale with consistent quality.
8. Continuous Improvement
- The certification process involves regular audits and reviews, promoting a culture of ongoing improvement.
- Helps organizations adapt to changing industry standards and practices.
9. Alignment with Ethical Standards
- Emphasizes ethical research practices, ensuring compliance with data privacy laws and ethical guidelines.
10. Staff Development
- Provides a clear framework for training and development, helping employees understand and adhere to best practices.
- Encourages a culture of quality and accountability within the organization.