The majority of consumers use the internet as a source of information when they need to make a buying decision. Blogs are used, portals, forums, newsgroups, review sites, etc. These channels are called “social media” and they are increasingly used by consumers to get information they need to make their (buying) decisions.

Social Media is used (& created) by millions of people to ventilate their opinion on what’s going on in society. Literally every subject is discussed: from political party policies, to the latest Nike campaign, to information on the side effects of medicines, to decisions which health insurance to choose, which car to buy or which holiday to book. The Internet has become a vital source for consumers to give their opinion, exchange information and has become a major influential factor.

Although this is a very new situation, it affects almost everyone: brands, advertisers, pharmaceutical companies, car manufacturers, political parties, traditional media and traditional research companies. Every organization needs to be in tune with how their brand, their newly launched product, their campaign, their policy change or their competition is perceived.The Internet is the perfect medium to get that information. Millions of consumers are listening and being influenced by online conversations online every day.

Systematic analysis can provide a powerful alternative (or supplement) to traditional media monitoring and is a unique channel to uninfluenced, unfiltered, timely opinions and perceptions.
Traditional research agencies use research methods like surveys, focus groups, face-to-face interviews, phone interviews. Although Social media is a considerable factor, it is currently not included in traditional research. The focus is still very much on off-line, traditional channels.

Buzzcapture analyses Social Media on an on-demand basis and offers comprehensive reports and consultancy services. Buzzcapture can provide insight on how your brand is perceived, how your competitors are perceived and what the “market buzz” is on an ongoing basis.