Des igning a data system for consumer research

The study presents the concept and development of a data system designed for collecting timely primary information to address consumer-oriented research issues. The discussion focuses on the design and sampling procedures used in the establishment of a Consumer Information Management System (CIMS), and major issues related to the operation and maintenance of such a system. The CIMS provides an easy-access and ready-to-use system which can serve many potential surveys individually or simultaneously as needed. The CIMS data base may be expanded via networking with similar operations among researchers in other parts of the country.