20 questions for buying AI-based research
A starting point for conversations with AI research suppliers: how the service works, what data it uses, who is accountable and how outputs are checked.
Buying toolsRead guidance
INDUSTRY GUIDANCE
Guidance from research bodies
Standards, checklists and advice from professional bodies and public institutions. For SMR's own writing, see articles and buyer guides.
Industry guidanceSMR articles
Buying augmented synthetic data
Five topics to work through with a supplier when synthetic data will extend an existing research sample.
Sample augmentationRead guidance
Using AI and related technologies in research
MRS guidance for researchers applying AI, including responsibilities for research quality, participant protection and explaining the methods used.
Research practiceRead guidance
Client data, AI and the boundaries of consent
A practical note on what client contracts and participant consent allow when research data is reused in AI systems.
Consent and privacyRead guidance
How the research code applies to synthetic data
The June 2026 update explains how consent, privacy, validation and disclosure obligations apply to synthetic participants and digital twins.
Research practiceRead guidance
Responsible AI integration in survey research
A 2026 review of AI across questionnaire design, interviewing, processing, analysis and reporting, with a framework for responsible adoption.
Research practiceRead guidance
Data quality resources for research teams
A cross-association collection covering participant engagement, sample quality, fraud and AI, including practical documents from several research bodies.
Data qualityRead guidance
Synthetic data and privacy-enhancing technologies
Explains privacy-enhancing technologies, including synthetic data, and the risks to assess when using them to share or analyze information.
Consent and privacyRead guidance
Managing the risks of generative AI
The Generative AI Profile sets out risks and suggested actions across an AI system's life cycle. Useful for teams designing procurement and review policies.
AI governanceRead guidance
AI risk management playbook
Suggested actions and documentation practices for putting the AI Risk Management Framework to work within an organization.
AI governanceRead guidance
Related tools and articles
Use these materials when choosing a tool or planning a study.