What is an Online Panel?
- Content Type:
- Glossary
Online panel Definition
A study in which participants are contacted and screened and then periodically sent questionnaires through the Internet. Also known as an Internet panel.
An online panel is a group of pre-recruited individuals who have agreed to participate in market research studies conducted via digital platforms. Members of the panel provide feedback, answer surveys or engage in other research activities over time.
Who relies on online panels in the marketing research industry?
Market researchers, product developers, advertisers, brand managers and marketing agencies rely on online panels to gather insights on consumer behaviors, preferences and attitudes efficiently and cost-effectively.
What are key aspects of online panels in market research?
Key aspects include:
- Pre-recruited participants: Panel members are selected based on specific demographics or characteristics.
- Flexibility: Used for various research types, such as surveys, polls or qualitative tasks.
- Long-term engagement: Members can participate in multiple studies over time.
- Targeted insights: Allows segmentation based on panelist profiles for precise data collection.
- Cost-effectiveness: Reduces recruitment time and costs compared to recruiting participants for each study.
Why are online panels important in market research?
Online panels are important because they provide a reliable and ready-to-access participant base, enabling faster data collection and more targeted research. They help organizations understand customer needs, test concepts and make data-driven decisions in a timely manner.
How do market researchers use online panels?
Market researchers use online panels to conduct surveys, collect feedback on products or services, evaluate marketing campaigns and monitor consumer trends. By segmenting the panel based on demographics or behaviors, they obtain detailed and actionable insights that inform product development, marketing strategies and business decisions.