Our methods

How we generate credible evidence

We combine rigorous research design, digital data collection tools, quality control systems and contextual field experience to produce reliable, valid and actionable insights.

Research built on method and field experience

Our approach blends secondary evidence, survey data, qualitative insight, digital tools and robust quality assurance.

Methodology

Research approaches tailored to each assignment

Our methods are selected based on the research objectives, context, target population, data availability, quality requirements and client decision needs.

Desk Research

Fast, structured and cost-effective evidence from existing sources.

01

Desk Research

We systematically collect and analyze existing data from secondary sources, such as reports, publications, academic journals and online resources. This research method allows us to gain valuable insights quickly and cost-effectively by leveraging readily available information.

Through desk research, we gather background information before moving into primary data collection. This helps refine study questions, identify evidence gaps, understand context and strengthen the research design.

Literature reviews Policy and program document review Secondary data analysis Context mapping Evidence gap identification

Quantitative Research

Structured data collection supported by digital tools and quality systems.

02

Quantitative Research

To ensure the highest quality, we prefer using Computer-Assisted Personal Interviews, specifically Survey CTO and ONA. Our in-house scripting team, field staff and devices support seamless survey execution.

We continuously refine our proprietary quality control and reporting system after each major project. When appropriate and in line with our quality standards, we are also open to utilizing more cost-effective survey methods, including phone, SMS and online surveys.

CAPI surveys Survey CTO ONA Phone surveys SMS surveys Online surveys Quality control reporting

Qualitative Research

Human-centered methods that reveal meaning, motivation and context.

03

Qualitative Research

We conduct robust qualitative research, employing methods such as focus group discussions, key-informant interviews, in-depth interviews and ethnographic observations.

With extensive experience executing qualitative projects in over 25 languages, we have successfully reached respondents in major cities, rural regions and remote areas. We strive to gain a deeper understanding of respondents and their decision-making processes, sometimes even more insightfully than they do themselves.

Focus group discussions Key-informant interviews In-depth interviews Ethnographic observations Multi-language fieldwork Remote and rural research
Quality assurance

Every method is backed by quality control

From study design to data collection, analysis and reporting, we apply controls that improve accuracy, reliability, validity and usefulness of evidence.

Tool design

Structured tools aligned with research questions and study objectives.

Enumerator training

Field teams are trained on tools, ethics, consent and data procedures.

Data checks

Automated and manual checks help detect gaps, errors and inconsistencies.

Actionable reporting

Findings are translated into clear insights and practical recommendations.