Gathering opinions from busy tradespeople can be challenging and requires multiple methods of contact to maximise response. RONIN can contact via phone, screen and recruit to online interviews for those who are not desk-based and can also offer straight interviewing over the phone if that is preferred. Sole traders and those working within larger organisations can be included in groups as diverse as carpenters, builders, HVAC technicians, plumbers, boiler engineers, mechanics, pipefitters, landscapers and technology installers.
Audiences - Tradespeople
Construction & building, mechanical & systems, automotive & transportation, metal & fabrication, personal care, landscaping & agriculture, communication & technology, crafts & artisan trades.
Typical topics and subjects can include research on tools, equipment & supplies, training and professional development, safety & regulations, technological adaptation, industry trends and challenges, buying patterns, product and material preferences, and feedback on communications and marketing.
Paint purchasing study - Customer satisfaction in 8th year of fieldwork
A mixed methodology online and phone project. Customer sample lists were provided of trade pain purchasers, contacted by email for online completion initially and then non-responders were contacted by phone. The nature of tradespeople's work means that they are not desk-based, and a mixed methodology approach can maximise response. Survey available via phone, desktop, table and mobile.
- 1,600 18-minute interviews across 18 European markets
- Hard-to-reach group not desk based
- Open ended translation coding and data provided by RONIN
Market research surveys target various industries and occupations, including tradespeople, to gather information on various aspects like preferences, needs, behaviors, and opinions. When dealing with tradespeople, market research might touch on the following typical topics:
Tools, Equipment, and Supplies
Brand preferences
Satisfaction with current tools or equipment
Features and functionalities desired in new tools or equipment
Purchase frequency and decision-making factors
Training and Professional Development
Need for training or certification programs.
Preferred modes of training (online, in-person, workshops)
Evaluation of existing training courses and certifications
Safety and Regulations
Awareness of safety standards and regulations
Satisfaction with safety equipment and tools
Concerns and feedback about safety in the workplace
Services and Support
Satisfaction with supplier services (delivery, customer service, warranties)
Interest in additional support services (financing, training, maintenance)
Technological Adaptation
Openness to using new technologies (e.g., software for job management, mobile apps)
Current use of technology and software in their trade
Barriers to adopting new technology
Industry Trends and Challenges
Perceptions of current industry trends
Most significant challenges faced in the trade
Opportunities they see for growth or improvement
Product and Material Preferences
Preferences regarding materials used (e.g., sustainable materials, brand choices)
Evaluation of new products or materials in the market
Pricing and Payment
Price sensitivity and factors influencing purchasing decisions
Preferred payment methods and terms
Openness to financing options
Work Conditions and Preferences
Preferences for job assignments (e.g., residential vs. commercial)
Feedback on working conditions, hours, and job sites
Communication and Marketing
Preferred channels for receiving industry news and product information
Feedback on promotional campaigns targeted at tradespeople
Effectiveness of different marketing and advertising mediums
Business Operations and Management
Challenges in managing their business (for those who run their own)
Use and satisfaction with business management software or services
Hiring and staffing concerns
Supply Chain and Logistics
Satisfaction with suppliers and distributors
Challenges faced in procuring materials or tools
Impact of global events on their supply chain (e.g., pandemics, trade wars)
Market research surveys with tradespeople can be incredibly valuable, as they can provide insights directly from the field, helping suppliers, manufacturers, and service providers cater to their needs more effectively.