A QUALITATIVE MARKET RESEARCH AND TRAINING COMPANY
RIVA Webinars - Registration closes the day prior to the webinar. Registration Fee: $125 per person
RIVA Webinar - Date: TBD, 2021
In order to receive your Certificate of Completion for the below courses, you must complete and participate in all modules on each day of class.
RIVA 195V PQR, "PQR - Principles of Qualitative Research"
RIVA RIVA 195V, Principles of Qualitative Market Research, is an intensive and interactive self-paced training course that is intended to provide researchers that use qualitative techniques in marketing, research, or meetings with a strong foundation in the underpinnings of qualitative research.
Ongoing (Self-paced) - Virtual - Register Online
RIVA 199,"Project Management & Screener Development"
RIVA 199 has been developed to help qualitative researchers to refine the administrative skills that make a project successful.
March 16, 2022 Virtual - registration closes 3/7/21 - Register Online
RIVA 201,"Fundamentals of Moderating"
RIVA 201 provides an experiential training environment for students to learn about focus groups and their context of qualitative marketing research. Upcoming dates are below, please click on RIVA 201 link for additional training dates. Please note: All RIVA 201 courses (in-person and virtual) are 4-days in length.
November 8-11, 2021 In-Person WAITLIST ONLY - Register Online
November 15-18, 2021 Virtual - registration closes 11/5/21 WAITLIST ONLY - Register Online
December 6-9, 2021 Virtual - registration closes 11/27/21 WAITLIST ONLY - Register Online
January 10-13, 2022 Virtual - registration closes 1/1/22 - Register Online
January 24-27, 2022 In-Person WAITLIST ONLY - Register Online
February 7-10, 2022 Virtual - registration closes 1/29/22 - Register Online
March 7-10, 2022 Virtual - registration closes 2/26/22 - Register Online
March 21-24, 2022 In-Person - Register Online
RIVA 202,"Skill Acceleration"
RIVA 202 course provides an experiential training environment for working and experienced moderators who have not taken RIVA 201.
February 28-March 3, 2022 Virtual registration closes 2/19/22 - Register Online
RIVA 204,"All About Ethnography"
This course focuses on the skills needed in order to get unfiltered responses in "real time" with interviews in a home, business, or social setting.
April 25-28, 2022 In-Person - Register Online
RIVA 205 Virtual Course,"Moderating: Kid & Teen Qualitative Sessions"
This course is being offered directly through Pam Goldfarb Liss at LitBrains-Igniting Ideas!, pam@litbrains.com, www.LiBrains.com.
RIVA 207 Virtual,"Fundamentals of IDI Moderating"
Fundamentals of IDI Moderating, has been specially developed for qualitative researchers who are looking how to conduct one-on-one interviews with individuals.
February 14-17, 2022 - registration closes 2/5/22 - Register Online
May 23-26, 2022 In-Person - Register Online
RIVA 221 Virtual Course,"Principles of User Experience Research and Testing"
Principles of User Experience Research and Testing leverages many of the skills qualitative researchers already have [e.g., building rapport, probing for clarity, getting below top-of-mind responses]. This 2-day in person class will show seasoned QRCs what they need to know to start incorporating usability research into their skill set.
Virtual Class - March 14-15, 2022 - Register Online
RIVA 241,"Qualitative Analysis & Reporting"
Qualitative Analysis & Reporting has been revamped and is now a 4-day training. This course provides an experiential training format in which students can learn how to analyze and report findings from any one of the 19 different qualitative methodologies. Students will receive techniques and individual trainer feedback on how to capture the wealth of diverse qualitative data and turn it into clear, concise, written insights for their clients. This three day course requires the use of laptop computers both in class and for homework. Taught by one of the founders - Naomi Henderson
Virtual Class - February 21-24, 2022 - registration closes 2/12/22 - Register Online
RIVA 275 In-Person, Beyond Probes – Using Interventions and Projective Techniques to Get Below Top-of-Mind Answers "
A 3-day experiential course for seasoned moderators offers a training environment for students who seek to build more complex and non-traditional moderating styles through special tools and techniques.
March 28-30, 2022 In-Person Register Online
RIVA 303,"Advanced Moderating"
The course provides advanced moderators with a review of current skills with feedback and coaching to reach higher levels of research.
Date: TBD, 2022 - Register Online
Qualitative Market Research (QLMR) formally began in the 1930s with focus groups for Proctor & Gamble. The role of QLMR has grown exponentially in nearly eight decades and the principles about it continue to emerge.
Course Prerequisites:
There are no prerequisites for this course.
This intensive, asynchronous (self-paced) online training will be provided through the Learning Management platform Auzmor – taught by RIVA Co-Founder and CEO, Naomi Henderson. The course is intended to introduce key principles and provide individuals with an understanding of the types of Qualitative Market Research (QLMR) and its applications. This course is designed to be taken at times that work for the learner and, if taken all at once, would cover about 4 hours.
Upon completion of this course, graduates will be able to:
1. Define Qualitative Market Research [QLMR]
2. Differentiate between QLMR and QTMR [Quantitative]
3. Determine the best uses of QLMR
4. Differentiate between facilitating, ideating, brainstorming, and ideating
5. Define qualities of a Master Moderator
6. Describe the benefits and drawbacks of vested moderators
7. Outline the four stages of a Qualitative Research Event [QRE]
8. Understand the key elements of a QRE
9. Clarify different methodologies under the QLMR banner [QRE’s]
This course is not intended to train individuals how to become new or better moderators, nor is it intended to train individuals how to conduct QREs. While some materials will be related to moderating, the intent of this course is to provide the groundwork understanding of the underpinnings of QLMR and its uses.
The learning modules include: video demonstrations, lectures, assigned readings from the RIVA 195V: Principles of Qualitative Market Research Workbook, and quizzes. The course workbook will be sent via FedEx or USPS to you upon receipt of registration and payment in full.
This course is designed for individuals who are:
A successful qualitative research project is more than just a good focus group or interview. Having the right respondents and staying on top of all the steps in the project have a great impact on whether the project flows smoothly with a minimum of difficulty or whether problems arise that put the project under stress.
Course Prerequisites:
There are no prerequisites for this course.
RIVA 199 has been developed to help qualitative researchers refine the administrative skills that make a project successful. In some companies, the moderator is responsible for all parts of the study from proposal to final report, and some companies assign a portion of these duties to others in the organization, rather than the moderator.
This one day course is designed to support those individuals who have the responsibility for managing a qualitative research study, developing the screener for recruiting respondents, and even those who manage those who do. Using examples from students' own projects, as well as a RIVA textbook and handouts, students will deconstruct these examples to sort the elements that work from these that may not be producing desired results.
After taking this course, graduates will be able to:
RIVA 201 provides an experiential training environment for students to learn about focus groups and their context of qualitative marketing research. The focus of the course is on designing a clear research purpose statement, preparation of a clear and workable individualized guide, and executing and honing skills to conduct lively focus groups with respondents. Students will hone their skills through repeated tasks that build on one another, constant feedback, and coaching. Additionally, students take away a textbook full of examples and practical tips from actual research projects.. Please note: All RIVA 201 courses (in-person and virtual) are 4-days in length.
Course Prerequisites:
There are no prerequisites for this course.
After taking this course, graduates will be able to:
• Lead groups as a professional, even if it's your first group
• Develop an appropriate comfort level for conducting group interviews
• Develop individualized introductory group ground rules & guidelines
• Craft appropriate questions for gathering qualitative data
• Practice techniques to organize desired data into a Moderator's Guide
• Quickly build rapport with respondents
• Discuss ways to probe for more than top-of-mind responses
• Manage time during groups and keep the group process flowing
• Develop techniques to elicit respondent behavior beyond: "So, Mary, what do you think?"
• Differentiate between an "expert moderator" vs a "topic expert"
• Moderate groups effectively and ethically with their own customers and fellow employees
• Produce a foundation of a toolbox filled with special moderator techniques and how to use them
• Define the role of ethics in qualitative research
• Command the room while being the youngest person on the research team
• Demonstrate ability to run a focus group study
How Students are Assessed: RIVA courses are designed using the concept of 360 degrees of learning for students. This process starts with students receiving assignments to complete both prior to and while in class and before departure. Within class times, RIVA uses multiple approaches to assess what has been learned, primarily by determining how students apply the learning to their work in their organizations. To realize that goal, Students are expected to exhibit what they have learned through their writing (screeners, guides, reports), or by demonstrations of best practices of moderating and delivery of specific techniques such as rapport building, creative problem solving and projective techniques. Trainers use in depth feedback forms while observing students and provide both written and oral feedback during their course time. As well, students are encouraged to check in with a RIVA trainer after the course is completed and certificates issued if they have new or emerging needs so that their learning does not stop with a final goodbye when class is formally ended.
This course provides an experiential training environment for working and experienced moderators who have not taken RIVA 201. The course provides moderators with insights into areas that are working well and those that are not. The focus of this class is to review current moderating skills and to provide insight into moving current skills to a higher level. The thrust of the course is on trainer coaching and feedback on moderating styles and techniques. Students will also take away a textbook full of invaluable information derived from live research projects.
Course Prerequisites:
Must not have taken RIVA 201 and needs the written permission from the Executive Director.
After taking this course, graduates will be able to:
• Integrate feedback on their moderating techniques and styles through practice sessions
• Build rapid rapport with respondents
• Clarify tips and techniques on appropriate, individualized introductory group ground rules & guidelines
• Improve techniques to organize desired data into a Moderator's Guide
• Craft efficient questions for gathering deeper data
• Gauge the impact of their questions and know how to adjust them to get desired data
• Discuss ways to probe for more than top-of-mind responses
• Utilize techniques to elicit respondent behavior beyond: "So, John, why do you say that?"
• Develop strategies and skills for dealing with "difficult" respondents
• Integrate feedback on the use of interventions and metaphorical techniques
• Define the role of ethics in qualitative research
• Moderate groups effectively and ethically with their own customers and fellow employees
• Distinguish their strengths and insights into areas for improvement
• Demonstrate the integration of feedback to run a focus group study
How Students are Assessed: RIVA courses are designed using the concept of 360 degrees of learning for students. This process starts with students receiving assignments to complete both prior to and while in class and before departure. Within class times, RIVA uses multiple approaches to assess what has been learned, primarily by determining how students apply the learning to their work in their organizations. To realize that goal, Students are expected to exhibit what they have learned through their writing (screeners, guides, reports), or by demonstrations of best practices of moderating and delivery of specific techniques such as rapport building, creative problem solving and projective techniques. Trainers use in depth feedback forms while observing students and provide both written and oral feedback during their course time. As well, students are encouraged to check in with a RIVA trainer after the course is completed and certificates issued if they have new or emerging needs so that their learning does not stop with a final goodbye when class is formally ended.
Qualitative market research has many avenues to collect data from respondents. One way to get unfiltered responses in "real time" is to conduct an interview in a home, business or social setting. Ethnographic research goes where the respondent is and combines market research questions with tools from anthropology and sociology, allowing researchers to gather data "in the moment" in which an action or activity is taking place.
This experiential RIVA course, part of the foundation series at the RIVA Training Institute, provides information on the Art & Science of Ethnography and allows opportunities to practice skills, not only in class but also in the real life settings of consumers. It is an intensive 3-day class with a trainer and coach. Pre-requisites: Either a graduate of RIVA 201, 202 or the approval of the Training Director.
Course Prerequisites:
There are no prerequisites for this course.
After taking this course, graduates will be able to:
• Define the various types of ethnography research models
• Employ the steps for effective ethnographic interviews
• Summarize the four stages of ethnographic interviews
• Explain the importance of the interview protocol
• Define role of note taking, video/audio recordings, and in-home logistics
• Determine the best number of research members to take to an individual interview and the role of each person on the team
• Conduct ethnography projects within a clear set of ethical guidelines
• Identify tools, tips and techniques for setting up an ethnographic project, conducting a project and determine what data should be analyzed for reporting purposes
How Students are Assessed: RIVA courses are designed using the concept of 360 degrees of learning for students. This process starts with students receiving assignments to complete both prior to and while in class and before departure. Within class times, RIVA uses multiple approaches to assess what has been learned, primarily by determining how students apply the learning to their work in their organizations. To realize that goal, Students are expected to exhibit what they have learned through their writing (screeners, guides, reports), or by demonstrations of best practices of moderating and delivery of specific techniques such as rapport building, creative problem solving and projective techniques. Trainers use in depth feedback forms while observing students and provide both written and oral feedback during their course time. As well, students are encouraged to check in with a RIVA trainer after the course is completed and certificates issued if they have new or emerging needs so that their learning does not stop with a final goodbye when class is formally ended.
RIVA 205, Moderating: Kid & Teen Qualitative Sessions is no longer being offered through RIVA. Instead it is being offered directly through the trainer Pam Goldfarb Liss. Please contact Pam at LitBrains-Igniting Ideas!, pam@litbrains.com, www.LiBrains.com.
This course will count towards the prerequisites for RIVA’s Master ModeratorTM Certificate Program. Please contact Amber Tedesco at 301-770-6456x101 or Amber@RIVAinc.com for more information.
If you are a graduate of RIVA 205, Moderating: Kid & Teen Qualitative Sessions and are looking to have this course count towards RIVA’s Master ModeratorTM Certificate Program it will still count.
In today’s digital world, User Experience (UX) research & testing plays a fundamental role in conceptualizing and refining all types of interactive products and services, from e-mail aps to ride sharing services. This course introduces students to the language and skills of User Experience, building on capabilities qualitative researchers already have [e.g., designing and managing qualitative research projects, building rapport, probing for clarity, getting below top-of-mind responses, and facilitating stakeholder discussions].
Students will be introduced to the language and process of User Experience through the Design Thinking framework [Research – Define – Ideate – Prototype - Testing]. They will gain an overview of how to leverage their qualitative skills in the early stages of product development [Research – Define – Ideate – Prototype]. The key focus of this class however is on the final Design Thinking phase – Testing, because learning how to set up a solid usability test is the quickest route to becoming a User Experience Researcher.
Students will gain an understanding of the best practices in usability testing as well as when and how to apply this method in their own work. Usability testing skills include UX research techniques such as persona creation, task analysis, how to understand a user’s mental model, remote and in-person card sorting. Each student will have the opportunity to design and moderate their own usability study with an outside participant using the class case study.
Course Prerequisites:
Moderators who have taken RIVA 201, 202, or 303; or have received the approval of RIVA's Training Director, Amber Tedesco. It is expected that participants in this class have been moderators for a period of time and want to upgrade their skills.
After taking this course, graduates will:
• Differentiate approaches on how to run a usability study from start to finish: understand the steps for planning, moderating, data collection, identifying and reporting usability issues
• Develop techniques on recruiting for a usability study, using personas to identify key participant characteristics
• Identify which UX Research approach to use at different points in the product development lifecycle (e.g., concept, early prototype, released product)
• Recruit for UX Research and usability studies
• Perform a heuristic review to identify usability issues
• Define how to do a task analysis
• Determine when to do in-person, remote, or automated usability testing
• Work successfully with diverse stakeholders in a User Experience Research project
• Integrate UX Research/usability with other qualitative research methods
• Utalize ways to leverage their qualitative research skills in UX
• Use the language of User Experience with more confidence
Students will receive a comprehensive workbook, example test plans script, recruiting screeners, and usability report template to adapt for use in their own practice. We will cover methods for usability testing digital and physical products and services. The course material includes a list of UX terminology and a detailed bibliography with information on where to learn more about usability testing user experience research so that they can incorporate these techniques into their own qualitative practice. Before the class, all students are required to do a pre-work exercise to learn Mural and fundamental UX concepts.
How Students are Assessed: RIVA courses are designed using the concept of 360 degrees of learning for students. This process starts with students receiving assignments to complete both prior to and while in class and before departure. Within class times, RIVA uses multiple approaches to assess what has been learned, primarily by determining how students apply the learning to their work in their organizations. To realize that goal, Students are expected to exhibit what they have learned through their writing (screeners, guides, reports), or by demonstrations of best practices of moderating and delivery of specific techniques such as rapport building, creative problem solving and projective techniques. Trainers use in depth feedback forms while observing students and provide both written and oral feedback during their course time. As well, students are encouraged to check in with a RIVA trainer after the course is completed and certificates issued if they have new or emerging needs so that their learning does not stop with a final goodbye when class is formally ended.
This experiential course, for seasoned moderators, offers a training environment for students who seek to build more complex and non-traditional moderating styles through special tools and techniques.
It is a three-day course that concentrates on teaching the philosophies behind interventions, and "projective techniques," as well as metaphorical techniques used in focus groups to access deeper data. Additionally, this course provides experiential demonstrations of multiple techniques by trainer.
Participants will receive written materials in a workbook to take home and use as a resource as well as a list of recommended readings to build a continuing knowledge base.
Course Objective:
To give students a deep, rich repertoire across a broad scope of interventions and projective techniques, and a context for using them appropriately.
Course Prerequisites:
Moderators who have taken RIVA 201, 202, or 303; or have received the approval of RIVA's Executive Training Director, Amber Tedesco. It is expected that participants in this class have been moderators for a period of time and want to upgrade their skills.
After taking this course, graduates will be able to:
• Describe various methods used in qualitative research - focus groups, IDIs, as well as other qualitative research sessions beyond traditional probes
• Define the objectives of various interventions and projective techniques
• Learn the do’s and don’ts for various interventions and projective techniques
• Review the basic format of most below top-of-mind methods (e.g., set up, variations, debriefing) and how to apply them to meet specific client objectives
• Prepare the design and development a package of techniques to meet research goals and receive expert feedback and coaching via in class “recorded mocks”
• Build on a repertoire of useful techniques by creating their own to fit their unique qualitative research needs
• Develop alternative techniques to elicit respondent behavior beyond: "So, Bob, what do you think?
• Demonstrate skills to break through a non-productive qualitative research session with challenging respondents
• Discover how to present interventions and projective techniques to ensure support of clients when in the research design stage
• Define the role of ethics of these methods in qualitative research
•Evaluate the information and skills needed to adapt, create, and modify methods to meet ever-changing needs
How Students are Assessed: RIVA courses are designed using the concept of 360 degrees of learning for students. This process starts with students receiving assignments to complete both prior to and while in class and before departure. Within class times, RIVA uses multiple approaches to assess what has been learned, primarily by determining how students apply the learning to their work in their organizations. To realize that goal, Students are expected to exhibit what they have learned through their writing (screeners, guides, reports), or by demonstrations of best practices of moderating and delivery of specific techniques such as rapport building, creative problem solving and projective techniques. Trainers use in depth feedback forms while observing students and provide both written and oral feedback during their course time. As well, students are encouraged to check in with a RIVA trainer after the course is completed and certificates issued if they have new or emerging needs so that their learning does not stop with a final goodbye when class is formally ended.
Day 3:
This course is only for Master Moderator Candidates who are enrolled in the Master Modertor Program and have met all other requirements to take the Master Moderator Exam.
Designed for highly experienced moderators and researchers, this 3-day course provides an experiential training environment for students to critically observe and model masterful moderating techniques. Founders of the RIVA Training Institute, Naomi R. Henderson and Jo Ann Hairston who together have conducted close to 10,000 focus groups, teach this capstone course. Students will have opportunities to critically observe a variety of trained moderators, in person and on tape, view a group conducted by a Master Moderator with consumer respondents, plus get feedback of their own moderating work. In addition to the unique experience of learning special tools and techniques from moderators who are renowned in their specialty areas, students will also learn through collegial sharing and solution-finding of challenges in the current research industry. A review of mastery level qualitative research skills and knowledge will work to prepare participants for the written and practicum examination for RIVA's Master Moderator TM Certificate.
After taking this course, graduates will be able to:
>
• Establish their critical observation of styles of other experienced moderators and apply learning to their own work
• Incorporate feedback on their own style and skills
• Integrate ways fellow researchers have tackled research and project challenges
• Demonstrate techniques for not settling for surface data
• Show alternative techniques to elicit appropriate respondent behavior
• Utilize techniques to gracefully handle challenging respondent situations
• Formulate a benchmark to model their own skills and to use when evaluating other moderators
• Explain a deep understanding of research ethics
• Demonstrate knowledge, understanding of the skills, and ability to lead a QRE session at the level of a RIVA Training Institute Master Moderator.
How Students are Assessed: RIVA courses are designed using the concept of 360 degrees of learning for students. This process starts with students receiving assignments to complete both prior to and while in class and before departure. Within class times, RIVA uses multiple approaches to assess what has been learned, primarily by determining how students apply the learning to their work in their organizations. To realize that goal, Students are expected to exhibit what they have learned through their writing (screeners, guides, reports), or by demonstrations of best practices of moderating and delivery of specific techniques such as rapport building, creative problem solving and projective techniques. Trainers use in depth feedback forms while observing students and provide both written and oral feedback during their course time. As well, students are encouraged to check in with a RIVA trainer after the course is completed and certificates issued if they have new or emerging needs so that their learning does not stop with a final goodbye when class is formally ended.
RIVA 501 is a practical 4-day course, rather than a course based on theory or academics. RIVA's promise to graduates of this course is that you will be equipped with practical and actionable steps in order to facilitate a meeting and learn the techniques to move the needle from problem to solution as a session leader.
Course Prerequisites:
There are no prerequisites for this course.
After taking this course, graduates will be able to:
• Differentiate between giving a speech, moderating, brainstorming, or ideation session
• Discuss the importance of pre-group planning in order to make a facilitation effective
• Build an environment that ensures a successful outcome
• Utilize key tools that enhance the facilitation process
• Determine how to keep track of the data generated in a facilitated session
• Explain the importance of ground-rules and buy-in by participants
• Describe the impact of personal style on outcomes
• Handle challenging personalities
• Handle group dynamics
• Manage tangents and timelines
• Identify your individual style of facilitation
• Craft questions to support input to the problem solving process
• Build rapport and maintain it for hours or days
• Demonstrate ability to run a facilitation
How Students are Assessed: RIVA courses are designed using the concept of 360 degrees of learning for students. This process starts with students receiving assignments to complete both prior to and while in class and before departure. Within class times, RIVA uses multiple approaches to assess what has been learned, primarily by determining how students apply the learning to their work in their organizations. To realize that goal, Students are expected to exhibit what they have learned through their writing (screeners, guides, reports), or by demonstrations of best practices of moderating and delivery of specific techniques such as rapport building, creative problem solving and projective techniques. Trainers use in depth feedback forms while observing students and provide both written and oral feedback during their course time. As well, students are encouraged to check in with a RIVA trainer after the course is completed and certificates issued if they have new or emerging needs so that their learning does not stop with a final goodbye when class is formally ended.
RIVA offers an opportunity for qualitative researchers to enhance their skills via webinars. Our webinars provide insights on a variety of qualitative market research trends, concerns, tips, and techniques. The live 90 minute format allows for the honing of particular skills, and an opportunity to interact with our RTI Founders or trainers online. They will be bringing more than 50 years of combined experience and insights from over 10,000 focus groups. You will find the benefits of this small investment will be immediate in your qualitative career.
Experience what sets RIVA apart from other training programs - enroll today!
RIVA Coaching services offer RIVA alumni an opportunity to continue building skills and getting professional feedback after your class - from your own home or office. Coaching services are also available to people who have very specific training needs that are not addressed in our public courses.
You and your RIVA Coach set regular telephone appointments to talk about the issues that are important to you. Appointments are typically 30 minutes in length or at a schedule that works for your convenience. They are usually held weekly, but this is based on your needs at the time. In addition to your live meetings, your RIVA Coach can review your work via videotape and documents you send.
There are many ways RIVA Coaching clients may benefit and the beauty is that it is tailored to what you need. These benefits include:
• Having the expertise of a Master Moderator as a mentor and coach to support you in achieving success
• Working with a plan that meets your needs for flexibility both in time and space. You and your coach can make appointments for daytime or evening, schedule your meetings for while you are in your office, at home, or on the road
• Selecting a coach from a qualified list of RIVA Coaches and finding a fit for your needs, both in compatible personalities and your coach's industry expertise
• Making a commitment that fits your budget and needs
• Taking advantage of discounts for longer term coaching relationships
• Knowing that all RIVA coaches are also RIVA Trainers so they know the RIVA Method
• Using your coaching time effectively to problem-solve your specific areas of interest
• Using down-time in your work to sharpen your skills and expertise
• Knowing your time with your RIVA Coach is private and the two of you are the only ones privy to your conversations
• Using a "coaching package" that will qualify as a RIVA course for those who want to use this one-on-one time as one of the course requirements for their Master Moderator Certificate.
For additional information please contact Amber Tedesco at Amber@RIVAinc.com/301.770.6456 x101 or Register Online
For over 30 years, the RIVA Training Institute has been described as the "gold standard" in moderator training. RIVA classes are renowned for their experiential training conducted by skilled master moderators/trainers with over 15 years in the industry. We also have a high trainer to student ratio that supports RIVA's dedication to giving students individualized coaching that they need. Let us bring our customized training to you.
The RIVA Training Institute offers customized courses that can be conducted in-house at your office location, a facility close to you, or at our training office in Rockville, MD.
Sample training courses include:
• Fundamentals of Moderating
• Skill Acceleration
• Kid/Teen Moderating
• Cognitive Interviewing
• The Art & Science of Effective Probing
• Facilitation
• One on One Interviewing
• Ethnography
• Advanced
Why choose a custom course?
• Customized to fit your specific needs.
• Save time and dollars on employee travel by having our instructors come to you. Provides for a solid return on your training investment
• Each custom client is assigned a dedicated team of training professionals who assist with logistic management and class support
• Ensures that all staff learns the same material at the same time.
• Fosters teambuilding within your organization and/or department
• Boosts morale and illustrates to your staff that their training needs are important to you
• Gain instant credibility with your clients. RIVA is recognized for being the elite organization for qualitative training.
We are eager to discuss your custom training needs.
Contact Amber Tedesco at Amber@RIVAinc.com or 301-770-6456 x. 101.
A partial list of our custom clients:
• AstraZeneca
• Booz Allen Hamilton
• Boston Scientific/Guident
• Capital One Bank
• Centex Homes
• Freddie Mac
• General Mills
• In-Sync
• Internal Revenue Service
• John Deere
• Kraft
• Levi
• Lextant
• Medtronic
• Newell Rubbermaid
• Nissan
• Novartis
• Pfizer
• Social Security Administration
• Sterling Rice Group
• Walt Disney
RIVA's Tuition Policy: There is a $500 non-refundable deposit that is included in the course tuition. Payment is due in full at time of registration. If you are paying by company check or wire, your full payment must be received by the registration close date. If you are paying by company Purchase Order (PO), please email your PO form to Training@RIVAinc.com within 5 business days of your registration. All training classes are to be paid in full prior to the start of class, unless we have received a PO and the appropriate paperwork.
If circumstances cause you to cancel or transfer out of a course 22 days or less before the start of class, all monies paid are forfeited unless you have an eligible replacement from your network to attend the date for which you are registered.
RIVA understands that schedules may cause you to transfer from one class to another. Should you need to transfer to another class, there will be a $100 transfer fee.
**Any monies returned to a credit card will incur a 4% cancellation fee.
If you are a RIVA Training Institute graduate and would like to request a copy of your student records, you can contact RIVA one three ways:
• Email us: training@RIVAinc.com
• Call us at 301-770-6456
When you make your request, please provide your full name at the time you took a RIVA Training course, the company name you were with when you took the course, approximate date of when you took the RIVA course, the course information you require, and an email address where the records can be sent.
If you are an employer looking for records on an employee, you must ask that employee to submit a formal written request to release the information to you.
It is the policy of VISAR Corporation dba RIVA Training Institute to ensure an equal learning opportunity to all students without discrimination or harassment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or express, age, disability, marital status, citizenship, national origin, genetic information, or any other characteristics. All individuals involved in continuing education/training will not be subject to discrimination by any staff members or trainers of RIVA Training Institute.
As things slowly begin to move into the new normal, RIVA wants you to know that we are doing everything we can to ensure the safety and well-being of our students and visitors to our offices. When you visit RIVA, here are steps we have implemented in order to help keep you safe and healthy in our offices. We have done the following.
• Included additional hand sanitizer bottles in all common areas that RIVA visitors use.
• Increased sanitizing and cleaning during the course – wiping down all common areas, tables, chairs, and appliances with disinfectant wipes.
• Provided RIVA students with their own bag of sanitized pens, markers, and highlighters to use in the course.
• Replaced our dishes with disposable cups, utensils, and plates to be discarded after use.
• Provided masks and gloves for staff, students, and guests upon entry to RIVA if you don’t have one. If you already have one, please bring it with you.
• Moved to a plan that all snacks will be packaged [chips, cookies, trail mix, breakfast bars, etc.] and, if lunches are offered, they will be individually prepared orders from local restaurants.
• Limited the number of staff in the offices during class sessions.
• Set up our training room to best comply with social distancing efforts, maintaining 6ft distance mandates.
• Implemented a “Temperature Check” on all persons that enter the office each day so that everyone is safe.
• Asked students to complete questionnaire prior to the course related to COVID-19.
• Implemented a policy in which staff will be unable to touch any student’s computer. We will be able to assist/walk through any issues students are experiencing, but cannot do it for you.
Our office building has also increased efforts to ensure that common “touch points” in the building are sanitized at frequent intervals. They have posted informational flyers on how to best follow social distancing guidelines, including limiting elevator capacity. Like RIVA, the building is following the CDC guidelines in order to keep tenants and visitors safe and healthy.
RIVA has continued to follow direction from Maryland’s Governor Hogan, the State of Maryland, and the CDC in order to be best prepared to welcome you back to our office. As the situation continues to evolve, RIVA will respond accordingly.
All public courses are held at RIVA Headquarters located just outside Washington, DC in Rockville, MD. This location is accessible to all three DC area airports (Reagan National, Washington Dulles, and BWI) as well as Union Station. Additionally, RIVA is located directly adjacent to the Twinbrook Metro Station.
Street Address:
1201 Seven Locks Road, Suite 360 Rockville, MD 20854, 301-770-6456
Area Hotels
Hilton Washington DC/Rockville Executive Meeting Center
1750 Rockville Pike, Rockville, Maryland 20852 Phone: 301-468-1100
The Hilton Washington DC/Rockville, welcomes you to experience first class service and amenities when visiting RIVA for training. Located on Rockville Pike just a few miles from RIVA Training Institute. The Hilton Rockville is a full service Hotel with many new upgrades to their rooms, restaurant/lounge, fitness facility, business center, free Wi-Fi, and a Starbucks onsite. To make reservations please click here. When booking be sure to take advantage of the RIVA Corporate Discount and free parking by using account #2663840.
EVEN Hotel Rockville
1775 Rockville Pike, Rockville, Maryland 20852 Phone: 855.TRY.EVEN
Located on Rockville Pike just a few miles from RIVA Training Institute. EVEN Hotel is the newest IHG brand focused on fitness. Offering in-room fitness zones for private workouts and the largest fitness center you will find in any hotel. The restaurant has healthy food and beverage options including made to order smoothies and Grab “n: Go meals. Be sure to take advantage of the 16% RIVA Corporate Discount off the Best Flex Rate and free parking by using account # 100301075 Rate Code: RIVA TRAINING INSTIT.
Cambria Hotel & Suites
196 East Montgomery Avenue, Rockville, MD, 20850, US PH: (301) 294-2200
Enjoy a unique experience among hotels in Rockville, MD, when you book a stay at the Cambria hotel & suites Rockville. Our hotel is just 2.5 miles from RIVA headquarters and only two blocks away from the Metrorail, providing access to Washington, D.C. and beyond. Located in the heart of Rockville Town Square, Cambria offers numerous dining and entertainment options within easy walking distance. Amenities include oversized rooms that feel like an upgrade, an onsite bistro and full-service bar, and an indoor heated pool.
Bethesda North Marriott
5701 Marinelli Road, Bethesda, Maryland 20852, Phone: 301-822-9200
Located just one Metro Stop south of RIVA, this hotel is also very easy to commute to and from. The Marriott is a new, contemporary hotel with excellent amenities.
As things slowly begin to move into the new normal, RIVA wants you to know that we are doing everything we can to ensure the safety and well-being of our students and visitors to our offices. When you visit RIVA, here are steps we have implemented in order to help keep you safe and healthy in our offices. We have done the following.
• Included additional hand sanitizer bottles in all common areas that RIVA visitors use.
• Increased sanitizing and cleaning during the course – wiping down all common areas, tables, chairs, and appliances with disinfectant wipes.
• Provided RIVA students with their own bag of sanitized pens, markers, and highlighters to use in the course.
• Replaced our dishes with disposable cups, utensils, and plates to be discarded after use.
• Provided masks and gloves for staff, students, and guests upon entry to RIVA if you don’t have one. If you already have one, please bring it with you.
• Moved to a plan that all snacks will be packaged [chips, cookies, trail mix, breakfast bars, etc.] and, if lunches are offered, they will be individually prepared orders from local restaurants.
• Limited the number of staff in the offices during class sessions.
• Set up our training room to best comply with social distancing efforts, maintaining 6ft distance mandates.
• Implemented a “Temperature Check” on all persons that enter the office each day so that everyone is safe.
• Asked students to complete questionnaire prior to the course related to COVID-19.
• Implemented a policy in which staff will be unable to touch any student’s computer. We will be able to assist/walk through any issues students are experiencing, but cannot do it for you.
Our office building has also increased efforts to ensure that common “touch points” in the building are sanitized at frequent intervals. They have posted informational flyers on how to best follow social distancing guidelines, including limiting elevator capacity. Like RIVA, the building is following the CDC guidelines in order to keep tenants and visitors safe and healthy.
RIVA has continued to follow direction from Maryland’s Governor Hogan, the State of Maryland, and the CDC in order to be best prepared to welcome you back to our office. As the situation continues to evolve, RIVA will respond accordingly.
RIVA Market Research was founded in 1981 by Naomi Henderson and for over 30 Years RIVA has been providing insightful and valuable qualitative research for its clients. RIVA has been a premier source for insightful and valuable qualitative research for an array of industries over the years.
As well as moderating for corporate clients, RIVA has been able to provide assistance to clients that need additional qualitative moderator's for their projects. The RIVA team of qualitative moderators includes people of Caucasian, African-American, Latino, and Asian descent.
Over the years, RIVA Market Research has assembled a staff of nationally recognized qualitative moderators, researchers, and analysts who work as a team to meet with clients to define the research project and establish objectives. We recommend suitable approaches and conduct relevant qualitative research activities, analyze results, and present comprehensive findings to clients.
RIVA Market Research provides each client with a full-time staff, including a Research Director and a Research Analyst who together manage all of the logistics to setting up and managing the facilities to providing in-depth analysis through careful review of findings.
Our mission is to conduct insightful qualitative research and translate findings into useful information that clients can trust to help them make sound, strategic decisions. To ensure that our work represents your target market accurately, RIVA Market Research adheres to rigorous qualitative research principals. Members of the RIVA team work closely with clients to focus only on outcome-oriented questions that impact the study to help uncover beliefs and perceptions that genuinely reflect respondents' opinions and to provide a safe environment to allow the respondents to express themselves candidly. This commitment allows RIVA to scrutinize preconceived notions, and investigate preliminary conclusions to reveal underlying market attitudes and likely behaviors.
Contact Amber Tedesco at Amber@RIVAinc.com or 301-770-6456 x. 101.
Focus Groups: Eight respondents meet for a single two-hour qualitative session in a mirrored research facility. They are paid for their time and a trained moderator conducts the session.
Mini-Groups and Ad Labs: Vary in time and the number of respondents. They can be one to two hour qualitative sessions are conducted by a trained Moderator with four to eight consumers who discuss issues or review a series of advertisements to determine relevance and effectiveness.
In-Depth Interviews: One-on-one qualitative interviews are conducted by a trained moderator who collects independent reactions to products, services, ads, or concepts.
Online Research: Online qualitative research (focus groups, bulletin boards, or chat rooms) are conducted via the Internet and allow for client observation. Online research is not meant to replace face-to-face research completely, it is meant to be an alternative method to reach a target population. There are several situations when on-line research is not the best option and face-to-face should be conducted. If this type of research is being considered RIVA can help you make that determination.
Ethnographic Interviews: Ethnographic interviews allow the researcher and the client to see first hand how a consumer or employee uses products and services. The collection of qualitative data in the home, office or store settings of consumers and employees provides a deeper understanding of cultural meanings and the relationship of individuals to products and services as a result of economic status, cultural heritage, belief systems, and work environments.
Facilitations: For a variety of clients, RIVA facilitates sessions, workshops, board meetings, and events. The desired outcomes are a generation of ideas/issues from a broad forum [many participants] in which the ideas and issues are created [divergent thinking] via discussion and then, via convergent thinking they are streamlined down to a set [4-10 ideas] that warrant further exploration.
Mock Juries: Respondents listen to legal arguments and case points and then vote on these points and comment on what influenced their decision. This approach helps lawyers evaluate case strategies for their clients.
Focus Panels: The same respondents attend a series of groups over a fixed time period (e.g. one year) where products or ideas are evaluated as evolutionary changes are made. Participants are paid an initially high stipend for the first session and lower fees for subsequent groups. Incentives like coupons can also be provided.
Each Qualitative Research Event involves a twelve step process. It starts with the client request, and ends with an optional client presentation, the steps in the middle progress along an 8-10 week timeline. All QRE's can be changed depending on client needs and deadlines. Here's how a typical project unfolds:
Advertising and Public Relations
• Deutsch, Inc.
• Gotham, Inc.
• MasiMax Resources, Inc.
• Ogilvy Public Relations Worldwide
• Porter Novelli
• Spike/DDB Needham
Associations and Non-Profits
• American Cancer Society
• Children's Defense Fund
• Food Marketing Institute
• National Affirmative Action Consortium
• National Medical Association
• National Safe Kids Campaign
Consumer Goods & Services
• Bausch & Lomb
• Coca-Cola, Inc.
• General Mills
• Kimberly-Clark Corporation
• Pepsi Co.
• Maybelline
Education
• American Council on Education
• D.C. Public Schools
• Gallaudet University
• Montgomery County Board of Education
• National Education Association
• Sylvan Educational Solutions
Financial & Real Estate Services
• Aetna, Inc.
• American Express Financial
• Legg Mason
• Centex Corporation
• NationsBank
• Salomon Smith Barney
Governmental Agencies
• Census Bureau
• U.S. Department of Education
• Internal Revenue Service
• National Crime Prevention Council
• National Institutes of Health
• U.S. Department of Labor
Health Care & Pharmaceutical Services
• Aetna
• Centers for Disease Control
• Department of Health and Human Services
• GlaxoSmithKlein
• McNeil Pharmaceutical
• Pfizer
Publishing/Media
• ABC Radio
• Black Enterprise
• Black Entertainment Television
• NBC
• Rodale Press
• USA Network
Research/Marketing Companies
• Booz Allen & Hamilton
• Equals Three Communication
• Lake Sosin Research
• Mathematic Policy Research
• Public Opinion Strategies
• Wirthlin Worldwide
Telecommunications & Technology
• AOL
• AT&T
• New York Telephone(NYNYX)
• Sprint
• Verizon
• Bell Atlantic
Transportation & Automotive
• Department of Transportation
• The Honda Corporation of America
• Maryland Department of Transportation
• National Highway Traffic Safety Commission
• New York City Port Authority
• Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority
Focus Groups
Nova Skin Care Systems
Research Problem: While there are hundreds of home skin care and cleansing systems on the market, most are applied to the skin directly by hand or cloth. Estheticians and other skin care professionals may use very expensive cleansing machines to achieve deeper, more effective cleansing, but these are not typically available to the consumer.
Research Wrinkle: In the retail market there are only a few cleansing appliances available for home use, but almost all of them provide cleansing by the action of spinning brush heads. Sometimes these can irritate or damage sensitive skin. Valcent, the maker of the Nova Skin Care System wanted to know if upscale consumers would be interested in a new style of hand-held cleansing appliance that cleans and moisturizes by a supersonic pulsing action rather than a circular brushing motion and if consumers perceive this as a significant advantage for the product.
Research Process: Focus groups with affluent women who purchase a variety of skin cleansing and skin care products were conducted to assess interest in the product and obtain reactions to proposed packaging.
Key Research Finding: The prototype and the packaging options garnered a highly favorable response from respondents and supported the perception the product would be likely to fill the gap between regular salon facials and current home cleansing options.
Business Decision: To expand product production and marketing plans for distribution in upscale department stores.
Mock Jury
Beech Aircraft
Research Problem: Beech Aircraft has been making small aircraft for private pilots for decades. They have a high safety record and their products are well liked. From time to time, however, they are the subject of lawsuits over issues related to assignment of responsibility when airplane design is deemed to be a factor in a crash.
Research Wrinkle: For an upcoming lawsuit case in Federal court, which strategy should Beech take as the defendant side of the case?
Research Process: A series of "mock juries" with citizens very much like the ones that will be jurors in the actual case. Mock Jury #1 hears strategy #1 and the "deliberations" are viewed by the lawyers through a one-way mirror to determine what evidentiary elements created the verdict reached. Mock Jury #2 hears strategy #2 and the process is repeated. The lawyers can then decide which approach will create a significant chance for winning the case.
Key Research Finding: One of the strategies worked better than another to reach the verdict desired by the lawyers. That is the route they chose to present in Federal court and Beech won the case, avoiding a payout of millions of dollars in settlements.
Note: The case hinged around whether the pilot ignored six warnings by Beech to retrofit specific safety materials. The actual jury indicated that it was not the responsibility of a company to call each of its 56,000 customers to see if they complied, the responsibility was to insure that the warnings had been received.
Business Decision: Based on the success of the "Mock Jury" process, Beech has determined that they are an important research tool when the outcome of a case cannot be predicted on the face of the evidence.
IDI's, Dyads, Triads, and Focus Groups
McNeil Pharmaceuticals
Research Problem: In the United States, over 70,000 people of African American and Middle East descent are living with Sickle Cell Disease, an inherited disorder of the red blood cells that makes them shaped differently and function not as well as typical red blood cells. The name comes from the characteristic shape of the dehydrated red blood cell as they collapse into crescent shapes and clog up the blood flow to different parts of the body. When these backups of cells occur, there is often intense pain and weakness in the patient called ?pain crises? and hospitalization is required along with potent pain killers. There is no known cure for the disease so far and the average life span is in the mid forties.
Research Wrinkle: Frequency of pain crises can be as seldom as once or twice a year. However, others may suffer the pain crises as often as once or twice a month. Hospitals often mislabel these patients as ?drug seekers? and may refuse to offer the proper pain medication without a lengthy delay. There is very little medication available that can improve the body?s ability to manufacture healthy red blood cells and alleviate the pain crises. McNeil wanted to know more about the daily life of sickle cell sufferers and obtain feedback to a new medication being developed.
Research Process: Qualitative research in the form of individual (IDI), dyad and triad interviews, along with focus groups were conducted with individuals with sickle cell disease to create a better understanding of issues in daily life and obtain reaction to the product concept.
Key Research Finding: McNeil Pharmaceuticals developed a greater understanding of the effects of pain crises on the day-to-day lives of respondents and a unanimously favorable reaction to the concept of the new medication.
Business Decision: Continue with clinical trials to prepare this product for the market.
Focus Groups
Kimberly Clark Corporation
Research Problem: Kimberly Clark had created a new "disposable fabric" from the by-products of producing consumer paper products. The "fabric" was discovered by accident [much the same way Post-its were discovered by accident when the incorrect glue was used as an adhesive]. Now that KCC had this "fabric," they needed a use for it. Engineers and market researchers inside of the company could not agree on the best way to use the material, so it was decided to test it with consumers.
Research Wrinkle: Past research had indicated that the need for "disposable clothes" was currently limited to the health care industry and that there wasn't much "need" for disposable clothing items among general consumers, so the problem was finding a target market that could use the "fabric."
Research Process: Six focus groups with homeless men and women to see if they could find a use for the "fabric".
Key Research Finding: Yes, the homeless "community" could find a practical use for the "fabric" and, in fact, determined six different ways the product would be useful to them and to the organizations that serve the homeless.
Business Decision: KCC manufactured items from the "fabric" and made donations of the materials created to a number of social service agencies
We are excited to announce the release of the third edition of Secrets of a Master Moderator. The reader will find eight new articles, a glossary of terms and an index. This book spans nearly 35 years of Naomi's experiences as a moderator and a trainer of qualitative researchers. It covers a full range of QRE's [Qualitative Research Events] from IDIs to extended groups.
There are tools, tips, and techniques for moderators who run the gamut from novice to seasoned and it grapples with knotty questions and concerns that affect those working in market research environments.
For a limited time the price of the Secrets of a Master Moderator book has been discounted.
RIVA TRAINING INSTITUTE
Through courses, workshops and seminars based on proven QLMR methodologies RIVA will strengthen and support the personal, intrinsic and professional skills of those engaged in market and social research. We are committed to raising and maintaining high professional standards in the qualitative research industry.
Training qualitative researchers since 1982.
RIVA MARKET RESEARCH
RIVA conducts insightful qualitative market research to discover and understand perceptions, opinions, beliefs and attitudes from target markets. RIVA translates findings into information that clients can trust and use to make sound decisions.
Qualitative methodology specialists since 1981
2019 - Facebook Live Events
As part of RIVA’s commitment to helping the qualitative market research field continue to grow, we are offering a new Facebook Live series called #AskaRIVATrainer. In this series, we are bringing the expertise of our phenomenal trainers straight to your phone or computer screen! If you’ve ever had a burning question about qualitative market research, now’s your opportunity to ask!
Each Facebook Live event will be hosted on our Facebook page and a call for questions will go up on our social media platforms two weeks prior to the event. [Don’t forget to like/follow the page while you’re there to stay up-to-date!] The live event will take place at 1pm ET on the dates listed below.
QRCA Events
QRCA Meeting – New York Metro Chapter
Friday, October 11th, the New York Metro Chapter will be presenting a virtual, online moderating course. They describe it as “a solid overview of moderating including tips and tricks using real life examples. Learn from the best QRCs in the business [including DC’s own Naomi Henderson!] in this intense speed session covering study design to reporting. Each session is 20 minutes with 10 mins for Q&A.” Check out the QRCA page for more information and to register: QRCA page
QRCA Meeting – DC Chapter
Friday, November 1st will be 2019’s last DC Chapter meeting! Held at RIVA in Rockville, MD, this meeting will be a workshop format where participants discuss how they would tackle some common (and not-so-common) qual research problems. More details are below, so don’t forget to register on the QRCA site QRCA page
And if you have any problems or qual quandaries you’d like to discuss, bring them to the meeting or email them to us beforehand!
QRCA Meeting – DC Chapter
Monday, November 18, the Quirks Marketing Research & Insight Excellence awards will be held in New York City. Naomi Henderson is nominated for Research of the Year, and this black-tie affair will be held at the Edison Ballroom near Times Square. More info and tickets are available on the Quirks site: Quriks page
QRCA Conversations with Changemakers
CONVERSATIONS WITH CHANGEMAKERS launch of a new program that you and your membership might find interesting. You might be enjoying a bit free time this Friday, April 19th at lunch so tune in.
It’s a new video cast series called: CONVERSATIONS WITH CHANGEMAKERS!
Virtual and in-person one-on-one rare, curated interview sessions with experts and thought leaders in the advertising, marketing and research space on emerging trends, newsworthy stories and research industry happenings to help members stay in-the-know.
The first session kicks off on Friday, April 19th 1:00-2:00pm ET featuring Naomi Henderson, visionary, author, expert moderator, DC Chapter QRCA Chair, business owner and CHANGEMAKER.
The title of this first Change Maker conversation is: “Tribes, Truth and Technology”. Naomi will be sharing her POV - interview style - on the rise of “tribalism”, "fake news and the reinterpretation of truth", the role of social media and what it all means for qualitative research and QRCA members. Naomi will be interviewed live by Roben Allong, QRCA board secretary, and Co-Chair of the NY Metro Chapter.
Takeaways include:
1. Naomi's take on why tribe matter and her experiences with tribalism in America
2. Insights on where qual research is headed and what they mean for qual practioners
3. Learning to master the art of thriving in changing, volatile research times
4. What's social media got to do with it? The dangers and pitfalls of tech, according to Naomi
5. Reflect with her on overcoming some of her biggest life and qual challenges and how you can win too! What does success look like for you in 2019
This is a FREE *MEMBERS ONLY* EVENT. To borrow a phrase: #MEMBERSHIPMATTERS. Members from any chapter are able to attend. REGISTER DIRECTLY ON THE QRCA WEBSITE. 1 ADVANCE MEMBERSHIP POINT WILL BE AWARDED FOR ATTENDING THE SESSION.
QRCA DC Chapter Meeting - What’s New in the World of Recruiting?
QRCA DC Chapter Meeting - Lessons Learned from Leading over 20,000 Qualitative Research Events: A panel of seasoned moderators will discuss common challenges and strategies for success
Barbara Gassaway, Sandra Kluttz, and Jo Ann Hairston will discuss issues including:
• Working Effectively With Clients - Finding & Keeping Them
• Shortcuts to Guide Development
• Probing to Get Below Top-of-Mind Answers
• Secrets to Writing Effective Reports
Click here to register via QRCA website.
QRCA SIG Webinar
Naomi Henderson was to give a 75-minute webinar to the QRCA SIG members in April 2018 on Ethnography. Per the request of the participants, the session ran more than 2-hours because they were so engaged. Some quotes from the members who participated in the webinar:
• "We're still here because we love Naomi"
• "Thanks to all-this was awesome learning & INSPIRATION"
• "Thank you Naomi for your generosity and knowledge! Always a delight"
• "Thank you Naomi and Isabel for this great overview. It was very through and helpful!"
• "Thanks so much Naomi and Isabel! This was wonderful!"
QRCA Podcast
Naomi Henderson was interviewed by Patricia Sabena during a QRCA Podcast on Friday, September 25, 2015 at 10:30am EDT regarding the third edition of Secrets of a Master Moderator. Pat focused on the "themes" of the third edition. Issues that were covered are:
• Section about "Best Practices for Vested Moderators" & the reason Naomi felt it was necessary to include.
• Key pieces of advice for "vested" moderators.
• What makes a question leading and how both new and seasoned moderators can avoid this pitfall?
• Section on "Hot Notes", Naomi's discipline and techniques about Hot Notes and the reason they are so helpful in analysis.
Click here to review.
Minnesota Chapter QRCA-speaking Engagement - February 27, 2015
The QRCA DC Chapter was honored to have Naomi Henderson, the research industry guru, speak at their upcoming meeting. The topic of discussion is "How QRCs and Clients Can Get the Most Out of Working with Each Other."
For more information you can contact Elaine Gingold at Elgingold@aol.com
Washington DC QRCA-speaking Engagement - June 22, 2012
The QRCA DC Chapter was honored to have Naomi Henderson, the research industry guru, speak at their recent meeting. This was by far our most well-attended event ever! Naomi's passion is contagious, as is the confidence she imparts to use her knowledge within your own skill set or comfort zone. Members enjoyed tangible tips, practical advice, and anecdotal uses for a plethora of practice-enhancing content. Naomi's gracious demeanor and the wisdom she so selflessly shares and ignites an enthusiasm to go forth and do!
Naomi shared just a few insights, more of which are revealed in Secrets of a Master Moderator. Great book - a must-read for all moderators!
Barbara Gassaway, QRCA DC Chapter Chair
QRCA Podcast
Naomi Henderson will be interviewed by Kay Aubrey during a QRCA Podcast on Thursday, February 23, 2012 at 2pm ET. Questions that will be covered are:
• What were some of the reasons that you wrote "Secrets of a Master Moderator"?
• What is mastery and how does it apply to our work as moderators?
• How can a moderator keep his/her work fresh?
• How have the students in RIVA courses changed in the last 30 years?
• How do you see traditional face to face moderating skills fitting into new research methods that are based on new technologies such as social media listening and mobile research?
• Do you see new opportunities where moderators can apply their skills?
• What is the best way for an independent moderator to differentiate him or herself?
Click here to review.
Philadelphia/Delaware Valley QRCA - Friday, September 16, 2011
In September 2011, the Philadelphia Chapter of the QRCA was delighted to feature Naomi Henderson as the guest speaker for their quarterly meeting. Naomi's presentation was inspired by her recent publication, Secrets of a Master Moderator. In addition to being the Master Moderator, Naomi is also a gifted storyteller. She used a blend of personal experiences and colorful examples to speak about what mastery is (and is not). For many attendees, the intentionally lengthy Q&A was the highlight of the presentation. Naomi addressed a range of questions on topics from projective techniques to what advice 'Master Moderator Naomi' would give to 'Just Starting Out Naomi' with a hearty dose of anecdotes from her decades of experience. As a result of her animated and engaging speaking style, the only negative feedback we received was that our time with her was too short! On our feedback form, we ask chapter members to list two things that they will remember from the meeting. In addition to concrete "tips and tricks" to incorporate into their own moderating, many noted how much fun they had at the presentation. Thank you, Naomi!
Sara Tax
Karchner Marketing Research
Secrets of a Master Moderator Book Review - Quirks Magazine
Joe Rydholm editor at Quirks Magazine writes an article about Naomi Henderson's book Secrets of a Master Moderator
Click Quirks to read full review.
Benefits of Moderator Training
RIVA Training Institute has trained a number of Fors Marsh employees over the years. An article has been written about the benefits of being a trained moderator vs a non-trained moderator in the qualitative research field. Click here to review.
Naomi Henderson opened RIVA in 1981 and is its CEO, directing policy and procedures for two divisions: Research and Training. She is co-founder of the RIVA Training Institute, where she serves as a Master Trainer writing curriculum for public and custom courses and fulfilling her dream to leave the industry in better shape than when she entered, by training researchers in the art and science of rigorous qualitative research techniques. Naomi has been a researcher since 1964, and has led more than 6,000 focus groups and interviewed more than 60,000 people in groups or individually and is a nationally recognized Master Moderator. She is most responsible for the well earned phrase sought after by moderators and potential clients alike: "RIVA Trained Moderator".
Naomi holds a M. Ed. and a B.S. in Education and Psychology from American University. She is a licensed practitioner of NeuroLinguistic Programming [NLP] - a tool that accelerates the collection of behavioral data. As well, she is a certified Master Coach and has earned certificates of completion from Synectics, and the Creative Problem Solving Institute. She is a guest lecturer at George Washington University, Georgetown University and Hood College.
She is a frequent contributor to Quirk's Market Research Journal on issues related to qualitative research as well as, written for, "Reflections," for the American Marketing Association Journal of Marketing Research. She has been quoted in American Demographics, Forbes and the New York Times. Appearances on TV include CBS Evening News, PBS Health Week, and NBC Dateline.
She is a member of the Qualitative Research Consultants Association (QRCA) as well as the chair for the MD/DC Chapter.
Naomi enjoys reading fiction, writing poetry, creating crafts such as making jewelry & greeting cards.
The work Jo Ann does for RIVA is diverse. She works in both the Research and the Training division, shifting hats with ease. As a researcher she is - assigned to focus group projects that range from medical issues to health and beauty aids and from politics to new products. After leading more than 3,200 groups, and earning the title Master Moderator, Jo Ann helps clients access POBAs [Perceptions, Opinions, Beliefs and Attitudes] from respondents that range from homemakers to the homeless and from ages 7 to 97.
As a Co-Founder of the RIVA Training Institute she serves as a Master Trainer and developer of the framework and curriculum for both standard courses and custom courses designed to meet the needs of clients in a variety of industries. She is a credentialed Master Coach for Qualitative Researchers, as well as, individuals transitioning from one career to another.
Amber is COO as well as the Executive Director of Training and Research. Amber is the first point of contact for research clients and companies seeking information to help craft custom courses to meet internal needs. She is responsible for the strategy, planning and management of all research projects from proposal through the final report. That means being deeply involved with clients from first request to research methodology and scheduling and logistics and steering them through the planning process so their objectives can be achieved.
In her role as the Executive Director of Training, she works with clients to create custom courses for their staff members. She also manages the multiple open courses held at RIVA headquarters in Rockville, MD. Amber is a RIVA trained Moderator, Coach and a Research Analyst, giving her the ability to participate as a researcher on projects; write reports; and shepherd projects thought the RIVA 12-Step research process.
In addition to her experience at RIVA since 1998, her completion of the following RIVA courses is the platform for the standard of excellence she offers RIVA's clients:
As Senior Training & Research Coordinator, Linda is responsible for the enrollment process of RIVA students for the courses/workshops offered at the Institute. Her enthusiasm, organization, and commitment to RIVA's students make the enrollment process as individually attentive as the experiential training that makes RIVA training courses unique.
By taking the fundamentals of moderating course herself she not only speaks about the course as an opportunity for those calling for information, but from insight based on her experience as a student of the RIVA Method. In addition to working as the Senior Training & Research Coordinator, Linda also oversees the recruitment of respondents for the experiential portion of the RIVA workshops where students practice on recruited respondents as part of their training.
Before joining RIVA in 2014, Linda worked in event marketing and social media marketing in New York City. Her position at RIVA allows her to pursue her interests in administration and event planning.
Romaine has several hats she wears for RIVA one of which is a Master Coach for the training classes that are offered. She works closely with the students, guiding and supporting their learning.
Prior to her experience at RIVA, Romaine led seminars for hundreds of people in group settings, as well as individuals in accessing areas of possibility within themselves, she brings a deep sense of integrity to her work and supports staff and clients alike in mastering win/win principles.
Romaine enjoys traveling, attending live theater, the opera, and loves throwing and cooking for dinner parties with her friends.
Bonnie is the Bookkeeper and Human Resource Manager at RIVA. She brings over 25 years of experience working for private industry in the fields of bookkeeping, office management, and human resource development. Bonnie is responsible for the day to day financial responsibilities including Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable , Payroll, and Fiscal Reporting. She also runs the Human Resources department.
Bonnie enjoys reading historical novels and cooking, especially creating her own recipes!
As Associate Project Coordinator, Brittany works to ensure that each student has the best possible experience during their time at RIVA. Brittany prepares the administrative materials for all in-house training courses, custom courses, special projects, and research projects. Additionally, she manages the day-to-day logistics for each class meeting the needs of the trainer and students.
Brittany joined the RIVA team in 2017 after graduating from McDaniel College in 2015. Prior to joining the RIVA team, she worked in the marketing and customer service industry in both Maryland and Chicago.
Brittany enjoys writing, reading, travelling, and playing with her two cats (Selene and Smoke) during her time away from the office.
Privacy Notice:
This privacy notice discloses the privacy practices for rivainc.com. This privacy notice applies solely to information collected by RIVA Training Institute and our website. It will notify you of the following:
1. What personally identifiable information is collected from you through the website, how it is used and with whom it may be shared.
2. What choices are available to you regarding the use of your data.
3. The security procedures in place to protect the misuse of your information.
4. How you can correct any inaccuracies in the information.
Information Collection, Use, and Sharing:
RIVA Training Institute uses a secure third-party registration system for class purposes. We only have access to the information that you have provided for us via your registration.
At no point, nor at any time, does RIVA sell your information to a third party.
In order to register for a RIVA course, you must complete the registration form, providing us with certain information such as: name, email address, contact number, etc. At no point, nor at any time, will we share this information with anyone else. The information provided is solely used for registration purposes and to keep an historical records of all enrollments for planning purposes. The same holds true for respondents that register on our website or with our Recruiter for research. We may use the information provided to contact you regarding additional classes (per your request), programs, or changes to this privacy policy.
Your Access to and Control Over Information
You may opt out of any future contacts from us at any time. You can do the following at any time by contacting us via our contact page or emailing Training:
See what data we have about you, if any. Change/correct any data we have about you. Have us delete any data we have about you. Express any concern you have about our use of your data.
Security
We take precautions to protect your information. When you submit sensitive information via the website, your information is protected both online and offline.
When you register for a course or register as a respondent on our website, your information is transmitted to us in a secure manner using a third-party registration system that encrypts the transmission.
While we use encryption to protect sensitive information transmitted online, we also protect your information offline. Only employees who need the information to perform a specific job (for example, billing, course coordination, etc.) are granted access to personally identifiable information. In further attempts to ensure our students' and respondents' privacy, all staff have completed a Non-Disclosure agreement.
The computers/servers in which we store personally identifiable information are kept in a secure environment.
If you feel that we are not abiding by this privacy policy, you should contact us immediately via telephone at 301-770-6456 or emailing Training.
All public courses are held at RIVA Headquarters located just outside Washington, DC in Rockville, MD. This location is accessible to all three DC area airports (Reagan National, Washington Dulles, and BWI) as well as Union Station. Additionally, RIVA is located directly adjacent to the Twinbrook Metro Station.
Street Address:
1201 Seven Locks Road, Suite 360 Rockville, MD 20854, 301-770-6456
Area Hotels
Cambria Hotel & Suites
196 East Montgomery Avenue, Rockville, MD, 20850, US PH: (301) 294-2200
Enjoy a unique experience among hotels in Rockville, MD, when you book a stay at the Cambria hotel & suites Rockville. Our hotel is just 2.5 miles from RIVA headquarters and only two blocks away from the Metrorail, providing access to Washington, D.C. and beyond. Located in the heart of Rockville Town Square, Cambria offers numerous dining and entertainment options within easy walking distance. Amenities include oversized rooms that feel like an upgrade, an onsite bistro and full-service bar, and an indoor heated pool.
Hilton Washington DC/Rockville Executive Meeting Center
1750 Rockville Pike, Rockville, Maryland 20852 Phone: 301-468-1100
The Hilton Washington DC/Rockville, welcomes you to experience first class service and amenities when visiting RIVA for training. Located on Rockville Pike just a few miles from RIVA Training Institute.The Hilton Rockville is a full service Hotel with many new upgrades to their rooms, restaurant/lounge, fitness facility, business center, free Wi-Fi, and a Starbucks onsite. To make reservations please click here.
EVEN Hotel Rockville
1775 Rockville Pike, Rockville, Maryland 20852 Phone: 855.TRY.EVEN
Located on Rockville Pike just a few miles from RIVA Training Institute. EVEN Hotel is the newest IHG brand focused on fitness. Offering in-room fitness zones for private workouts and the largest fitness center you will find in any hotel. The restaurant has healthy food and beverage options including made to order smoothies and Grab “n: Go meals. Be sure to take advantage of the 16% RIVA Corporate Discount off the Best Flex Rate and free parking by using account # 100301075 Rate Code: RIVA TRAINING INSTIT.
|
follow us
|
