SSRS Research Areas

Civil Society Research

The First Step in Making Positive Change is Knowing Where You Stand

The SSRS Civil Society Research practice works with organizations focused on democracy and governance issues who are looking for an independent, reputable partner to be their strategic advisor. The practice seeks to integrate various strands of research devoted to the study and improvement of American public life. By combining research on politics and governance, media and information, and economic activity, we capture the complete picture of the American experience.

SSRS understands that quality data, while vitally important, is only a piece of the puzzle to enact change. Our Civil Society Research practice harnesses the best-in-class public opinion research tools offered by the company with an understanding of the larger structure of social trends and the implications of the data, giving our clients actionable insights.

The SSRS Toolkit for Civil Society Research

Using the SSRS Opinion Panel and the SSRS Text Message Panel for high-quality public opinion data collection.
Quick-turnaround studies online, by phone, and by text.
Sophisticated methods aimed at reaching underrepresented populations, or specific geographies ranging from national studies to single electoral districts.
Fast-turn, scalable qualitative research tools such as our Opinion Panel Qualibus or Virtual Insights panels.
Analytic reporting including secondary data analysis and strategic implications.

Voices from the Data Community: How 2025 Has Impacted Public Data Users

The federal statistical system is under stress — and public data users are feeling it.

Since the start of 2025, federal statistical agencies have faced staff reductions, program cuts, data purges, and the longest government shutdown in American history. To understand how these disruptions are affecting the researchers, analysts, advocates, and planners who rely on public data every day, SSRS — through the EMERGE Initiative — conducted a landmark survey of more than 500 federal data users across academia, government, nonprofits, and the private sector.

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