Marketing Research and Insight Glossary

Definitions, common uses and explanations of 1,500+ key market research terms and phrases.

What is Instrumental replication?

Content Type:
Glossary
Share Print

Instrumental replication Definition

A study which varies the experimental conditions of a previous study in an effort to duplicate the dependent measures used in the previous study. Study replication helps bring validity to the study results.

Instrumental replication refers to the process of repeating a study using the same measurement tools or instruments (e.g., surveys, questionnaires) but under different conditions, such as with a new sample, at a different time or in a different location.

What are key aspects of instrumental replication in marketing research?

  • Uses the exact same research instrument as the original study.
  • Tests the consistency and reliability of findings across different settings.
  • Helps verify that results are not unique to a specific context or group.
  • Often used in validation and benchmarking studies.
  • May be part of quality assurance or academic rigor.

Why is instrumental replication important in market research?

It strengthens the credibility and generalizability of research findings. By demonstrating that results hold true across different samples or situations, researchers can build more robust, reliable insights that inform strategic decisions.

Who relies on instrumental replication in marketing research?

  • Academic researchers.
  • Research validation teams.
  • Market research firms conducting tracking studies.
  • Government and policy researchers.
  • Corporate insights teams verifying key findings.

How do market researchers use instrumental replication?

Researchers use instrumental replication to test prior conclusions, validate survey tools, compare data across regions or time periods and build longitudinal datasets. It ensures that marketing strategies and business decisions are based on dependable, repeatable evidence.