If you are interested in finding out what market, social or opinion research is, The Market Research Society (MRS) provides helpful information to introduce you to the topic. You can link to A Newcomers' Guide to Market and Social Research from www.mrs.org.uk/mrindustry/index.htm#new  which provides a useful starting point.

If you have a query, eg on market research techniques, finding research or statistical data, finding an agency etc, they also have a Frequently Asked Questions page.

Selecting the right market research agency is an important part of the research process. The Newcomers' Guide gives guidance on how to choose the right agency.

The Research Buyer's Guide, published by MRS, is a directory of over 700 organisations offering market research throughout the UK and Republic of Ireland. It includes details of research markets, services, locations, senior contacts and an overview of each organisation's activities. Research buyers can use RBG-listed suppliers confident in the knowledge that they employ at least one Full Member of MRS who ensures compliance with the MRS Code of Conduct.

The Research Buyer's Guide can be searched online at www.rbg.org.uk. As well as searchable up-to-date listings, the website also offers a Bulletin Board to display potential research projects. There is no charge for using the online directory.

All of these resources are available at http://www.mrs.org.uk/mrindustry/index.htm#new