Mackman Research work wins top prize at the Government Business Awards

The annual Government Business Awards, which encourage and reward effective business practises in the public sector across the country, yesterday presented Mackman Research clients, Chelmsford Borough Council, with the top prize for Market Research. The award was won in recognition of the Council's Parks Audit which was carried out by Mackman Research in 2009. The winners were announced at Twickenham Stadium and presented by Bill Turnbull (BBC News).

In particular the research sought to discover why low income groups within the Borough are low users of public parks and gardens. Mackman Research devised the methodology, designed the questionnaire, collected the data, analysed the information and prepared and delivered the findings report. Our staff were out and about in Chelmsford not only in the parks, but directly targeting respondents at the Job Centre, the Benefits Office and via door-to-door interviews. The project was the first of its kind within the UK.

Officers from the Parks and Heritage Services, said:

“The Mackman Group team had a professional, collaborative, ‘can do’ approach to the project and we were impressed with their flexibility and expertise. The final report was clear and in depth and a great piece of research.”

Our Research Director, Dr. Gemma Mackman, said:

“The project was challenging but enjoyable and the fact that our research will assist the Council in encouraging more of Chelmsford’s residents to enjoy the wonderful parks that they have on their doorsteps made the project extremely worthwhile.”

Dr Gemma Mackman

Research Director

Dr Gemma Mackman is co-founder and Research Director of the Mackman Group. Her professional career has given her a broad knowledge of business practices, an appreciation of good customer service and experience of a diverse range of sectors. Gemma is also a member of the Market Research Society and has completed research training provided by the Economic and Social Research Council.

More About Gemma

What Our Clients Say

            
                        “Not only has the exercise helped us better understand the needs of older people in the county, but it also raised some important questions, which will help our organisation drive forward new ideas in the future.”
                        
Jonathan Skermer – Marketing/Development Manager, Age UK Suffolk                    

                        “Their collaborative and plain speaking approach makes working with them a pleasure. High standards are maintained at every part of the research process from questionnaire design, through to data collection, analysis, and the concise presentation of results. In particular we appreciate their no-nonsense approach to reporting results in a concise and graphical manner that is easily understood.”
                        
Stephen Duffety – Senior Partner, Baker Tilly Tax and Accountancy                    

                        “Mackman has worked professionally at all times, enabling clear presentation of the results to identify key trends and areas for growth and improvement of the Customer Services team now and in the future.”
                        
Sharlene Moffitt – International Customer Services Manager, Twinings

Meeting of people with notepads at a bench outdoors

Case Studies

See how our insight makes a measurable difference.

View Our Full Range Of Case Studies

Essex County Council - COVID-19 Business Research

Government

Mackman Research was commissioned by Essex County Council to conduct an important business support survey during the early stages of the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020. This project has since gone on to be selected as a finalist in the 'Best Data Collection – Interviewer Administered' category of the MRS Operations Awards 2021.