Meeting Diverse Client Needs
SPR has dealt with a wide range of client needs requiring a
variety of problem-solving skills. Research is only one such skill and usually
must be combined with a consultative process and an effective communications
strategy in order to achieve the best results.
Studies That Make a Difference: Many of SPR’s studies have been part of
leading edge changes in public policy, legislative and program
changes, program expansions (acquiring additional program and delivery
resources), and program consolidations (streamlining programs). For example,
SPR's 1986 research on occupational health and safety in Ontario led to major
changes to the Ontario Occupational Health and Safety Act, and the introduction of
Canada's largest program in occupational health and safety training. SPR's 1998
research on youth exchanges, for the Department of Canadian Heritage, played an
important role in the emergence of Exchanges Canada, aiding fulfillment
of a Speech from the Throne Commitment, as noted by Minister Stephane Dion.
SPR's research on work and family life was an important part of the
background research for Canada's introduction of new Parental Leave Benefits in
December, 2000.
Communications: Many research projects involve
autonomous organizations or diverse interest groups, while others involve
semi-autonomous branches of larger organizations (e.g. labour and management, or
different professions operating within a single organization). SPR is
experienced in involving such diverse groups in the research process, and in
designing communications strategies to maximize support for surveys or other
types of projects. SPR's 1996-99 surveys on labour standards and
the quality of work in Canada encouraged participation by all business sectors,
including banking, transportation, telecommunications, manufacturing, resources,
grain handling, hospitality and tourism, and the public sector. SPR’s approach to
communications relies on multiple media, including newsletters, E-mail, and use
of the Internet.
The Need for Basic Information: SPR has aided clients through systematic
collection of basic information, literature reviews, public opinion surveys,
case studies, and analyses of client information systems. For example, literature reviews
have been conducted by SPR on such topics as micro-electronic
technology and work, balancing work and family life, international labour
standards, public and private pensions, attitudes towards public transportation,
child abuse, homelessness, child welfare, sports injuries and parenting. SPR has
also conducted many international reviews in such areas as the future
of international trade fairs, international variations in policies to encourage
home ownership, international youth exchanges, and international approaches to
pension reform.
Consultative Process: Information has the greatest impact when given to
informed users. For these reasons, SPR usually recommends a consultative process
for projects whereby the client and expected users of the results are closely
involved in the study design and analysis. This type of consultative process better
informs both the client and the consultant team, and creates a stronger sense of
ownership. Such client involvement also creates a better understanding of how
study results may be applied to the client's organizational needs.