A focus group is a structured, facilitated discussion with a small, intentionally selected group designed to gather detailed opinions or experiences about a specific topic or issue to collect qualitative data.

Key Features:

• Guided by a facilitator using a prepared set of questions;

• Often used for research, evaluation, or decision-making;

• Participants are thoughtfully selected to meet research needs; and

• The facilitator actively probes for depth, clarification, and differences in viewpoints.

One-on-one interviews are a structured or semi-structured conversation between a facilitator and a participant, designed to gather in-depth insights, experiences, opinions, or feedback on a specific topic.

Key features:

• Allows for personalized, detailed exploration, providing qualitative data that may not surface in larger group discussions

• Beneficial for individuals who may not have time for a focus group or anonymity is important to open, honest feedback.

Surveys are a structured method for collecting information from a group of participants, typically using questionnaires that can include rating scales and open-ended questions.

Key Features:

• Surveys can be conducted online, on paper, or verbally

• Gather comparable data from large, or small, numbers of people efficiently.

• Identifying trends, set and measure benchmarks, test the depth and breadth of issues.

• Collect both quantitative and qualitative insights.

A literature review combines expert facilitation with collaborative analysis to help your team understand the research landscape and make smarter, evidence-based decisions.

Key Features:

• Complex research is reviewed, sourced and summarized;

• Designed to directly inform decisions, strategy, program design, or policy development;

• Helps participants reach shared understanding or informed agreement based on the evidence; and

• Leverages existing knowledge and data while highlighting gaps.