American Consumer Opinion

American Consumer Opinion runs a consumer research panel owned and operated by Decision Analyst, connecting companies with everyday people willing to share opinions on products, advertising, and services. The panel started in 1986 as a mail survey operation before moving online in 1996, and now counts more than 7 million members worldwide who weigh in on the questions brands and manufacturers need answered.

Members create a profile and are matched to survey opportunities based on their interests, then earn points for completing eligible surveys that can be redeemed for cash through PayPal and other options. On the client side, the panel is used to evaluate new advertising concepts for retailers and brands, review ideas for new consumer products and services, gather opinions on purchasing decisions and the economy, and help food manufacturers understand what consumers prefer.

Over its history the panel has logged more than 20 million completed surveys and paid out more than $35 million to members, figures that reflect a long-running exchange between everyday consumers and the companies trying to understand them. The model pairs quantitative survey work with an ongoing panel of participants, giving businesses a repeatable way to test concepts and gauge reaction before decisions are finalized.