Research quality checks

Compliance with the SIMAR standards is checked

Every member agency follows the standards systematically. They are the foundation of quality in each agency, complemented by that agency’s own know-how. The teams at member agencies guarantee clients that a project will be run at least to the relevant standard. Compliance is checked by regular independent SIMAR audits. Where something does not comply, proceedings are opened with the agency that lead to immediate correction. A detailed, non-public record is made of each check.

SIMAR provides consultations, audits and checks for clients and for non-members too

When a research project is being prepared, it is advisable to set down in the contract how the client will check, for example, the quality of data collection. The method of checking should form part of the contract between client and agency and be reflected in the price quoted. With a non-member agency it is advisable to provide contractually for the possibility of an external check on the quality of data collection against the parameters agreed for the project. SIMAR offers consultations to non-members as well and regularly audits research projects to clients’ briefs, at both member and non-member agencies.