The challenge

The Canal & River Trust was launched in 2012, taking over the guardianship of British Waterways’ 2,000-mile-long network of canals, rivers, reservoirs and docks in England and Wales. DJS Research worked extensively on behalf of the Trust from early 2019. At this time, DJS Research was commissioned by the Trust to manage the continued delivery of their flagship project, the Waterways Engagement Monitor (WEM), which is a continuous online tracker survey collecting the views and experiences of adults aged 16 or over across England and Wales.

The approach

The numerical, measurable and objective outputs of quantitative research are critical to building robust data-driven insights. An essential research methodology for monitoring KPIs, from sales figures to satisfaction rates, we use an extensive range of quantitative techniques to deliver robust, scalable datasets for our clients to strengthen business resilience and support future growth.

From tightly structured, closed-question online surveys with thousands of participants, to highly targeted on-street questionnaires, we have the skills and resources to deliver the scale and depth of responses you need.

We craft bespoke quantitative solutions, selecting the best channels and routes of engagement to reach your audience, and often recommend a mixed-mode approach to maximise success. For example, adding targeted postal and self-completion ‘top-ups’ onto a predominantly online survey to ensure less digitally engaged cohorts, who may have limited internet access, are included in research outputs.

Some of our most frequently used quantitative services include:

• CATI (telephone interviewing).
• CAPI (in-person interviewing).
• Face-to-face interviewing.
• Online desk research.
• Postal and self-completion.
• Hall tests.
• Bespoke online panels.

As a full-service market research agency with a dedicated Field and Data Services team, we have the scale to provide end-to-end solutions and the agility to deliver specific quantitative services to support specific business needs. For example, clients and research consultants who have their own datasets come to us for specialist support with processing, tabulation and reporting.

Whether you wish to engage a small, clearly defined group – such as 25 senior SME decision-makers in a particular field – or thousands of consumers across a single region or multiple global markets – we can deliver the insights you need.

To find out more about our quantitative research capabilities, and discuss how we could craft a tailored solution to meet the specific needs of your organisation, contact us today. 

The results

Through the Waterways Engagement Monitor (WEM), DJS Research captured the views of over 20,000 adults each year, giving the Canal & River Trust a clear picture of how people use and value their waterways. The survey tracked things like visitor numbers, satisfaction, and support for the Trust, helping guide decisions across marketing, fundraising, and volunteering. Beyond WEM, DJS Research ran a range of other surveys to keep insights flowing.

• Youth volunteering surveys captured the attitudes and motivations of 1,500–2,000 young people aged 16–24.

• Supporter proposition study explored engagement levels among current, potential, and lapsed supporters.

• Boater survey in London uncovered the needs of people living on the waterways.

• Community surveys in six locations evaluated the impact of the Community Roots programme.

• Marple Waterways Visitor Survey gathered detailed feedback from local visitors.

Together, these insights have enabled the Canal & River Trust to continuously improve the experience of visitors, deepen community engagement, and strengthen support for the waterways network across England and Wales.