New product developments

GfK Retail and Technology is launching its Temax index for technical consumer goods markets internationally this month. The measure, previously only available in Germany, will be available in more than 20 countries.

PR agency Weber Shandwick has introduced a set of communications metrics to help clients track ROI from their campaigns. The Arrow Measurement Suite tools can be used for weekly or monthly measurement, the firm says.

Panel provider Research Now has expanded the Rich Media Toolkit that allows clients to place ready-made Flash elements into online surveys. The additions include tools for incorporating logos, videos and sliding scales into questions.

B2B International has introduced instant messaging to the survey methodologies it offers in China. The firm says IM is “established as a principal business communication tool” in the country, particularly among under-35s in middle and junior management positions.

US healthcare researcher Ziment has introduced a system, Compoundz, for modelling the potential uptake of new products. CEO John Tapper said the new service offers “rigorous, projectable techniques” to reduce the risks involved in new product development decisions.

A new website, Songness, is offering independent musicians free audience research for songs they post online. Artists get an audience report for each song they test, while fans can use the site to get recommendations based on ratings given to songs by other users.

The NPD Group has added online sales data to its weekly tracker of point-of-sale data for consumer technology. The service collects information from 15 e-commerce retailers.

OneSource Information Services has launched a research and business consulting practice, through a partnership with strategic planning consultancy Dialectyx. OneSource Business Consulting will offer market analysis, strategic reviews of operations, cost reduction programmes and custom research.

Author: Robert Bain