FAQ Section: Public Affairs and Brand Reputation Management Research at Angus Reid Group

What does managing public affairs and brand reputation mean?

Managing public affairs and brand reputation ensure organizations understand public sentiment, societal trends, and policy challenges through a mix of quantitative (polls, surveys) and qualitative (interviews, focus groups) methodologies. It empowers informed decision-making in areas like policy development, crisis management, campaign effectiveness and corporate reputation.

Who benefits from public affairs research?

Organizations across sectors, including governments, non-profits, businesses, and advocacy groups, benefit from public affairs research by gaining actionable insights to shape policies, craft campaigns, and navigate societal shifts.

How does managing public affairs and brand reputation differ from market research?

While market research focuses on consumer behavior and purchasing decisions, public affairs research addresses societal trends, public sentiment, and the intersection of consumer and citizen roles to guide broader strategic initiatives. 

Research Process 

How does Angus Reid Group conduct public affairs research?
We use a fully integrated approach, including advanced surveys, sentiment analysis, and predictive modeling, to gather and analyze data. Our methodology combines quantitative and qualitative techniques to provide a comprehensive view of public opinion.

What is the role of technology in public affairs research?
Technology plays a vital role, from AI-driven analytics to dynamic data visualization. These tools enhance speed, precision, and depth, ensuring actionable insights for your organization.

How are respondents selected for public affairs studies?
We use advanced sampling techniques to ensure diverse and representative audiences, targeting specific demographic, geographic, or psychographic groups based on your research needs.

What is a human-centric approach?
Public affairs research is more than just numbers—it’s about understanding the values, beliefs, and emotions that drive people. Our research goes beyond surface-level metrics, offering a deeper connection to the audiences that matter most to you. At the core of our philosophy is the belief that research lies at the intersection of the consumer and the citizen. This unique perspective is our strength, enabling us to uncover the synergies and differences between these roles, delivering insights that bridge the gap between individual behaviors and collective societal trends. This dual perspective ensures that we capture the full spectrum of human experience, providing insights that are both practical and profound.  

Why is a vertically integrated agency important?
The Angus Reid Group is vertically integrated, owning and operating a fully integrated, end-to-end research platform. This unique capability ensures the highest standards of quality and integrity at every stage—from data collection to analysis and reporting. By controlling the entire process, we can deliver results that are both accurate and actionable, giving our clients confidence in the decisions they make.  

Applications and Use Cases 

How can public affairs research support policy development?
By analyzing public sentiment and societal trends, public affairs research ensures policies align with constituent values, fostering trust and effectiveness. 

Can public affairs research help during a crisis?
Yes, it provides real-time insights into public sentiment, enabling organizations to adjust communication strategies and maintain trust during crises. 

How does public affairs research enhance campaign effectiveness?
It identifies audience motivations and attitudes, allowing organizations to craft targeted messaging and impactful campaigns that resonate with their target audience. 

Can public affairs research measure social impact?
Yes, it evaluates the effectiveness of programs and initiatives, helping organizations assess their alignment with societal goals and stakeholder expectations. 

How does public affairs research help with corporate reputation?
Your corporate reputation reflects how well your organization delivers on its brand promise. While your brand defines what you stand for, your reputation is shaped by how consistently your actions align with those values. 

Public affairs research provides critical insights into how your organization is perceived by your audience. It helps answer key questions, such as: 

• Are your actions aligned with your stated values? 

• Do your organizational behaviors reflect the expectations of your target audience? 

• Is there alignment between your brand values and how they resonate with the public? 

By understanding these perceptions, public affairs research empowers you to strengthen your corporate reputation, ensuring your brand promise is fulfilled in ways that resonate with your audience and build lasting trust. 

Key Benefits 

What are the advantages of using public affairs research?

• Comprehensive insights into public opinion and societal trends.

• Real-time feedback for agile decision-making.

• Improved alignment with public values and expectations.

• Enhanced crisis preparedness and reputation management.

How does public affairs research save costs in the long term?
By providing targeted insights, public affairs research helps organizations allocate resources effectively, avoid missteps, and refine strategies before implementation. 

Angus Reid Group Expertise 

Why choose Angus Reid Group for public affairs research?
With over 40 years of experience, advanced technology, and a human-centric approach, we provide trusted insights that empower organizations to navigate complex societal challenges confidently. 

What makes Angus Reid Group unique?
We are proudly Canadian-owned, offering a culturally resonant perspective on global challenges. Our fully integrated research platform ensures quality, reliability, and actionable results. 

How does Angus Reid Group ensure data quality and security?
Our research adheres to strict data security standards. We also use proprietary fraud detection tools to maintain data integrity. 

Who runs the Public Affairs division at Angus Reid Group? 

Jennifer Birch, EVP and Managing Director, Public Affairs North America 

With 20 years of experience in public affairs and market research across France and Canada, Jennifer Birch brings a deep and diverse perspective to her work. Her background spans the supplier side, client side, and government, enabling her to deliver holistic solutions to complex challenges. A graduate of the Institut des Études Politiques (also known as Sciences Po). Jennifer holds a Master’s in Social Science Research Methods. She has guided multinationals, banks, and airlines through significant public affairs challenges including high-profile mergers, shaped economic policy, and improved service delivery for many departments of the Government of Canada. She has also worked extensively with Canada’s not-for-profit and association sectors, with a particular focus on health and healthcare.

Practical Details 

How long does a typical public affairs research project take?
Timelines vary based on the project’s scope, but we specialize in delivering insights efficiently without compromising quality. 

What industries do you serve with public affairs research?
We work with governments, non-profits, advocacy groups, businesses, and any organization seeking to understand public sentiment and societal trends. 

How can I get started with Angus Reid Group’s public affairs research?
Contact us to schedule a consultation, and we’ll guide you through the process, tailoring our services to your organization’s specific needs.