Statistical Sampling and Survey Design

Capabilities and Services

Courts are relying more and more on surveys to provide critical data not found elsewhere. New guidelines have accordingly raised the bar for standards of statistical sampling and survey research. Yet with this increased reliance comes increased risk; in court and in arbitration, evidence based on unsound survey work can quickly discredit counsel. Today, judges are asking tough questions -- not only about the assumptions that go into how a survey is designed, but also regarding the credentials of the survey experts themselves.
NERA economists use quantitative research, choice models, and other survey techniques to reach conclusions in a range of disputed issues -- such as claimed theft of trade secrets and Lanham Act claims of alleged trademark infringement or false advertising. Our surveys can help identify how consumers choose among service or product configurations, which attributes sway purchase decisions or whether certain names or designs have achieved meaning in the marketplace.