At Just Worldwide, we know our team members are our strongest assets, they are at the heart of everything we do and achieve. In our spotlights we'll introduce you to members of the Just Worldwide team who will discuss their journey in market research, achievements and highlights of their roles. Let's meet Clare, Field Director, Just Worldwide Global.
Tell us about your journey in market research so far and your role at Just Worldwide
Like many, market research found me rather than actively seeking it out. I started as a field coordinator at a MR agency in 2008 before moving to fieldwork side in 2010, when Just Worldwide began. My role has naturally evolved with the growth of JWW and I wear many hats be it team leadership, operations, commercials…and the journey continues!
You’ve been a member of the JWW team for 14 years, what differences have you seen in market research fieldwork since you started?
There are many! Three that come to mind are:
1 - First is the paradigm shift towards patient-centricity. When I started, projects were very much centred around HCP being the end customer and those early days were filled with HCP interviews, focus groups and in-office interviewing. Then we started seeing briefs centred around patients, patient perspective, patient journeys, beyond the pill etc. Patient recruitment was then in its infancy and relied heavily on consumer panels, or referrals (if lucky!). Fast forward 15 years and the landscape has changed; attitudinally, the public are more open to discuss health related matters, more so online with the rise in social media and with the formation of patient-led support groups.
2 - Next is technology which is ever-evolving (IDI cassette audios anyone?) Even before the pandemic, we had ditched the in-office interviews in favour of online platforms enabling us to see and hear representation from pretty much anywhere, instant downloads of interviews, automation of transcripts.
3 - Lastly, regulatory. The introduction of GDPR in 2018 was huge, not only regarding TOMs but the shift in mindset towards individual’s rights and protecting personal data. Rightly so.
Tell us about a Just Worldwide project you are especially proud of?
We often deliver projects not knowing the impact a particular drug will make down the line. When a ‘game changer’ drug is approved, it’s incredible to know this will improve outcomes for patients. Being the connection between participants and research, we hear firsthand the impact treatments or potential treatment may have one patient and their loved ones. We’re so proud of the patients we recruit and the contribution they make to improving outcomes.
What challenges do you come across most often in your role?
Challenges often arise when there is a misalignment of expectations. For example, a methodology may offer amazing outputs but if the participants aren’t willing to devote the time / are too sick / low FMVs then engagement drops - obviously a major obstacle for recruitment! These challenges can easily be mitigated, it’s rarely a one size fits all solution so open discussions and adapting to local nuances will often provide the solution.
How you think the MR industry will change in the future?
We’ll see continued improvement in efficiencies across the project cycle. AI will continue enhance analysis and reporting but not replace (please). Our interactions with participants will continue to be human and empathetic, though methods of communication may alter.
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