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Catalyst (data from MRI-Simmons USA study, formerly National Consumer Study)

This guide provides instructions for creating and interpreting cross-tabulations of data from MRI-Simmons USA study

What is "MRI-Simmons USA"?

"MRI-Simmons USA" provides data about demographics, attitudes, lifestyle behaviors, purchases of products and services, brand preferences, and media consumption for U.S. adults 18 and older. It is useful for researchers in marketing, public communication, public policy, and other social sciences.

We access the data from this study through a database called "Catalyst," from MRI Simmons.

Data come from a large, well-designed, scientific, annual survey of adults. They can be used to answer such questions as:

  • What types of people care about environmental issues?
  • Of adults in a certain age group, what percentage bought dining-room furniture in the last year?
  • Of the people that read The Wall Street Journal at home, what percentage are men?

How to Use the "Catalyst" Database

The interface for this database looks very different than the interfaces for article databases.

It requires you to select variables of interest from a menu of folders and create your own cross-tabulation tables.

The PDF guide below provides step-by-step instructions for using the database and for interpreting the data tables you create.

 

Step-by-Step Instructions

Need Help?

Please stop by the Reference Desk on the main floor of Howe Library.