Proprietary Technology

QuicScan^©

Sterling has developed the expertise to manage large sample surveys through automation. We pioneered the use of scanning technologies for market research. Our proprietary program, called QuicScan, has the benefits of lowering the cost of survey research while improving accuracy and reducing the time required for processing. Due to the difficulty of collecting valid email addresses of the ongoing customer satisfaction tracking studies we administer utilize QuicScan.

QuicScan combines laser optical and magnetic scanning technologies, high-speed analytic software, and desktop publishing. It utilizes fourth generation full-surface digitizing technology. The system can read mark sense (check marks), barcodes (UPC-like patterns), OCR (typewriter print) as well as handprint (handwritten letters and numbers). This flexibility means that questionnaires can be in the form that best suits our client's situation, and still be machine-readable. QuicScan is used in conjunction with Xerox's Flash Forms Docuprint System. This Xerox system generates custom printed questionnaires in multiple formats and colors, on both sides, with precise registration, and with variable data included, all in a single printing pass. Sterling has complete mail fulfillment capability for handling large-scale mail surveys. These mail surveys can be one-time and ongoing (weekly, monthly, quarterly) programs.

Go800^©

Sterling’s fully automated IVR (Integrated Voice Response) telephone interviewing system is called Go800. The concept of Go800 is to facilitate the process of interviewing respondents via telephone in an efficient and effective manner. It is the ideal solution for surveys where cost is a driving factor and the results are needed quickly. Go800 offers several advantages; interview hours can be extended through different time zones, interviews are more efficient than traditional human-to-human calls, and it is cost-effective for clients looking to get the highest number of responses for their dollar.