About Us

Madeleine Carstairs-Hick

Viewing Facilities Recruitment Transcription Services Moderating Services Suburban Field and Focus has evolved naturally, and is truly unique. As an MRS/IQCS trained Group Recruiter of many years experience I have always felt the need for compromise in the type of venue available for Qualitative Research.

For some types of research a purpose-built Studio can prove intimidating for respondents, whilst an 'In Home' or Hotel cannot provide the necessary facilities. Our aim is to address that balance.

Our traditional 'In Home' surroundings can boast all the attributes required for Client Viewing and Recording, but the experience is far more relaxed and comfortable for all concerned. We want our respondents to be at ease, in a similar environment to that in which they would normally meet up with friends for a drink and a chat! For some people especially it will be a social outing which they will thoroughly enjoy, and because they are comfortable and relaxed they will be eager and happy to make worthwhile contributions to your research! I have had people remark as they leave that they have enjoyed the evening so much they would have come without the financial reward (but they still take it!) Here is a convenient, safe venue, easy to find with adequate parking and transport where respondents will literally ‘feel at home’ . Upon arrival they are greeted with warmth and enthusiasm and shown into a family style room where they are offered drinks and refreshments and have a chance to meet with other respondents. Thus when they enter the Studio Room the ‘ice has been broken’ and respondents are enthusiastic and relaxed.

Meanwhile our clients are shown into the Viewing Room and will not meet the respondents ‘face to face’. The large screen TV monitor will relay all the events happening in the studio directly to them by audio/video link, whilst direct viewing is available through the 2 way Observation Mirror. An internal telephone link will connect them to the Studio should they wish to speak to the moderator conducting the group.

Catering can be arranged to suit requirements, from tea/coffee, freshly made sandwiches, finger buffets and meals to order with a good and reasonably priced Wine List. Telephones and PC points are available.

Our prices are structured to your requirements, but at a fraction of normal costs!!