SAMRA accredited interviewers hit the streets
In a move to assure the professional status of all involved in the research industry, SAMRA (The Southern African Marketing Research Association), has undertaken to issue ID badges annually to affiliated interviewers in recognition of their professional status.
This bold initiative to register the estimated 5000 interviewers in South Africa will ensure quality research. In addition the interviewee will be assured a safe and professional interview by a recognised SAMRA interviewer. This will also provide a wholly deserved platform. All accredited interviewers have to present their badge and quote their membership number when conducting interviews.
"The accreditation of interviewers will give SAMRA the teeth needed to give the industry improved ability to root out any problematic or fraudulent interviewers," comments Gordon Hooper, SAMRA Chairman.
"We are delighted with the response from the industry," says Lucy Plaskitt, SAMRA Chair Fieldworkers Forum. "To date we have over 500 registered fieldworkers and this figure is growing by the day, indicating the fieldworker's willingness and enthusiasm to ensure increased professionalism in the research industry. To become accredited, each interviewer must pass a written test based on the SAMRA Code of Conduct before they are issued a SAMRA ID Badge".
Against the backdrop of traditional professional practice already being implemented by research suppliers, SAMRA is now overlaying further quality initiatives, which include:
The registration and accreditation of interviewers:
"This strategic initiative is designed to further enhance the quality of market research in South Africa," concludes Hooper.
