Research Working Group Format

Generally, a Research Working Group has four phases:

Exploration The Conference Board listens to our members as they frame a compelling business problem that can be best addressed in a group setting.  We reach out to other members to determine if there is common ground to identify objectives, an approach and goals. 

Recruitment Members companies are contacted to see if they would also like to address this business issue in this forum.  Companies contribute participation fees, and a team of subject experts, researchers and writers is formed.

Delivery Research Working Group members meet face-to-face and via webcast, typically over a six-month time frame. Meetings are led by a Program Director and researchers from The Conference Board, joined by a range of experts. Between meetings, the TCB team explores issues participants have identified as requiring further study, and reports regularly back to the group.  Small study groups are formed to address sub-topics.

Roll-out Research Working Groups typically produce detailed findings for their own members shortly after the final meeting and a summary report for members of The Conference Board. These summaries capture the insights and recommendations of the group and illustrate the thought leadership provided by its members. They take a variety of forms depending on the topic and the needs of members.