Market research

Effective communication between the providers and consumers of goods and services of all kinds is essential to any modern society. There are many methods of gathering information, and the channels available are multiplying with the development and use of internet-based technologies and other interactive media. One of the most important methods of gathering information is by using market research, which in this Code is taken to include social and opinion research. Market research depends for its success on public confidence – that it is carried out honestly, objectively and without unwelcome intrusion or disadvantage to its participants. The publishing of this Code is intended to foster public confidence and to demonstrate practitioners’ recognition of their ethical and professional responsibilities in carrying out market research.

The first Code of Marketing and Social Research Practice was published by ESOMAR in 1948. This was followed by a number of codes produced by national bodies and by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC). In 1976 ICC and ESOMAR agreed that it would be preferable to have a single international code instead of two differing ones and a joint ICC/ESOMAR Code was published the following year 1977. This was revised and updated in 1986 and 1994, making the 2007 version the fourth edition of the ICC/ESOMAR Code, under a slightly altered title.

The Code, developed by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) and ESOMAR, has been revised to strengthen consumer protection and confidence and is applicable worldwide.  It takes into account recent developments in technology and privacy issues in conducting market, opinion and social research. The Code sets universal standards that can be accepted and applied by different cultures. It reflects an international consensus of views about fundamental principles that govern market research activities.

The ICC/ESOMAR International Code on Market and Social Research (2007) is available in English, French, Spanish and German.