Strategy Lab

Harris Interactive’s Advanced Strategy Lab (ASL), is a dynamic qualitative research process that creates a personal setting, yet maximizes the power of technology to expedite research results. ASL can be conducted over the web or in a structured, in-person lab setting. With remarkable versatility, depth and timeliness, this methodology not only explores a problem, but it also helps in designing an implementation plan to move toward solutions. In this sense, it is a “total process” research tool and a rich, efficient resource for strategic guidance. The Tool Advanced Strategy Lab is a LAN-based mobile computer lab featuring GroupSystems software to facilitate participatory group discussion and brainstorming sessions. Sessions are designed in accordance with project objectives and moderated by one or more research professionals with extensive experience in both the software technology and opinion research techniques. The Process In ASL sessions, the facilitator leads participants through “online” research questions and applications which are customized for each project. All responses are anonymous to ensure confidentiality and free thinking within a guided format. The session may include a range of electronic activities such as: • Brainstorming • Idea Categorization • Idea Prioritization • Voting • Survey Questions • Topic Commentary • Evaluating Alternative Implementation Steps With its simultaneous, real-time electronic format, participants become engaged in an energizing research exercise. As participants begin to identify with the process and objectives, the value of their ideas increase as well as their buy-in to the conclusions reached by the group. In addition, the ASL session is a blend of the review of the responses, along with very active dialogue and discussion led by the ASL facilitator.