By David Wisniowski
This is an ever-evolving interactive map including all the disciplines of market research today. The point of this is that we’re going to adapt this map over time and in the future, compare disciplines that weren’t used/involved in Research in 2013, but may be in 5 years or 10 years time.
Got a discipline that you think should be on here? Think one of our already existing disciplines should be put in a different place on the map? Let us know by commenting below, after all, this is an ever-changing map which we will adapt over time, so feel free to contribute!
If you’re a market researcher yourself, than you already know that we all come from diverse backgrounds or academic ‘tribes’. I personally, took English Literature in my undergrad and am still amazed everyday how many principles I’ve learned in university can be applied to my everyday work at RTG. That said, below is a ‘map’ I’ve created which features, what in my opinion, are the major academic disciplines one should be familiar with before starting a career in research.
Although I’m sure I’ll get a random email about how interpretive dance can be used to help construct surveys, I just want everyone to know that if you don’t see the academic segment which applies to you, I truly meant no offence. In fact, I’d be happy to add it on.
Here at RTG, we often talk about the future of market research. In keeping with tradition I wanted to mention some backgrounds which I have purposefully emphasized. Obviously, because this is a games based research company, I did focus on game theory. However, I’ve also included social media usage, graphic design and other areas which are not always the focus of different research projects. To that end, I’ve also left some room for new disciplines which could be integrated into the industry.
Whether your a new research just starting out in the industry, or a prominent research firm looking for a different perspective (nudge nudge), I think you’ll find the map pretty useful.