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Panel+ 3.1 : Advanced User Tip #6

Add to your panelist's data without asking them questions - import their data.

Many companies and organizations maintain extensive databases of customers as part of a reward or loyalty program, warranty system, or consumer credit accounts. These databases are continuously being updated with valuable information.

If you've created a panel full of people who also exist inside of your company's database, you may be wondering how you can make use of all of the information you've already collected about your panelists. Fortunately there is an easy solution. You can import it directly into your next study.

Importing is a powerful way for you to expand your panelist information without overburdening them with questions you already know the answers to.

For example, an airline company doing a study with panelists who have flown three or more times in the past month could avoid asking the question: "How many times have you flown in the last month?" if this information was readily available from their client/customer database.

This information could then be viewed in your study reports alongside your 'new' data and be used for further data analysis such as cross tabulation.

Importing data into Panel+ is as easy as 1, 2, 3...

1. To start, create a holding place for your data... we suggest a "new" study with a question for each variable you want to import. You know, a variable - like "State", "Service level", type of "Shopper" - the important labels your clients or customers have earned over time which help you to analyze your data.
   
   Are you still with me? In the Import section of Panel+ you can upload an SPSS file that contains all of the data you pulled from your customer database.
   
2. Matching up your variables has never been easier. Line up the variables from your SPSS file with the variables you created in your new survey and delete any unnecessary ones.
   
   Everything look good? Now, for the fun part...
   
3. Click on the 'import' button... et voila, you've just completed your first import!

If you're new to importing data, check your user manual or call your Vision Critical representative to learn more about the new features in Panel+ 3.1.

Posted on August 26, 2005
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