Answers to common questions about commissioning work from Fiker Think Tank Institute, defining an assignment, and agreeing on deliverables. Technical and implementation arrangements are determined according to each assignment’s objectives and requirements.
How do we request a study or service?
Please send a brief introduction to your organisation and the proposed work, outlining the questions you wish to address, the target populations, geographical scope, and anticipated timeframe.
Include any available terms of reference or project documents. This information helps establish your requirements and an appropriate scope of work.
Do we need complete terms of reference before contacting you?
Complete terms of reference are not required for an initial discussion. You may contact the Institute with a specific problem, an information need, or an initial study concept. The discussion can identify which objectives, questions, and deliverables need further clarification before a detailed proposal is prepared.
Can we commission one component of a study?
Yes. An assignment may cover a complete study or specific tasks, such as research instrument development, data collection, analysis, reporting, evaluation, or training.
For component-based assignments, the scope specifies the data, instruments, and documents supplied by the commissioning organisation, the Institute’s responsibilities, and arrangements for delivery and review.
How are the methodology and sample size determined?
The methodology reflects the research questions, information required, characteristics of the target populations, and feasibility of reaching them.
For quantitative studies, sample size depends on the sampling design, required precision, subgroup analysis needs, and anticipated response rates. For qualitative studies, participant selection reflects relevance to the research topic and the range of experiences needed. The technical proposal explains the rationale and limits of the proposed approach.
Can you analyse data we have already collected?
A separate assignment to analyse existing data can be considered. This begins with a review of the data structure, completeness, collection methods, and suitability for the questions to be addressed.
The feasible scope follows from that review. Limitations in the original data may affect the analyses that can be conducted and the strength and interpretation of the findings.
What deliverables can an assignment include?
Depending on scope, deliverables may include a study methodology, data collection instruments, organised datasets and documentation, analytical tables, a final report, an executive summary, a presentation, or training materials.
Deliverables, formats, languages, deadlines, and review arrangements are agreed in advance, together with conditions governing data transfer and use.
How are timelines and costs determined?
Timelines and costs depend on the scope, sample size and distribution, data collection methods, participant accessibility, analytical requirements, and the number and languages of deliverables.
A schedule and financial estimate are prepared once these requirements are sufficiently defined, with the underlying assumptions and factors that may require adjustment made clear.
Can training be tailored to our organisation?
Yes. A tailored programme can be discussed within the Institute’s areas of expertise.
Content, level, and duration are determined with reference to participants’ backgrounds, the skills to be developed, and the practical applications required.
Are commissioned findings published?
Commissioning a study does not mean its findings will automatically be published. Arrangements for publication, use of data and reports, and attribution of contributions are specified in the project agreement, taking account of confidentiality obligations and participant privacy.
Where can I find information about taking part in a survey?
If a researcher has contacted you about participating in a study, please visit the “For Research and Survey Participants” page or contact the Institute to verify the invitation and ask questions.
Have another question?
Please email your enquiry with a brief introduction to your organisation and the subject of your request.
Admin@fikertt.org