Est. 1994

After 30 years working with the world’s leading membership organisations, we’ve learnt a few things.

Our team has grown along with our reputation, and new challenges continue to emerge; from the rise of portfolio careers to the impact of AI. We’re convinced – there’s no more diverse or stimulating sector to work in than Membership.

Here’s a quick overview of the journey we’ve been on since 1994. Let’s hope the next 30 years are just as exciting and rewarding as the last.

Timeline

1994

Research by Design founded by Heather Forrester

2004

First British Chambers of Commerce project completed

2006

RICS becomes a client

2009

First office opened in Birmingham city centre

2010

Research by Design sets up its specialist Membership team, led by Ruth Bolle, current Managing Partner

2016

Membership clients make up 63% of revenue

2017

Research by Design develops its Member Engagement Model and co-authors Member Engagement Toolkit with MemberWise

2018

Research by Design launches the influential Member Value Proposition (MVP) model

2020

Research by Design joins the Box Delta Group

2020

Repositions to focus solely on the membership sector

2020

'PulseCheck', a pro bono syndicated Covid tracker launched to support the sector

2021

Research by Design publishes a report on Equality, Diversity and Inclusion within the membership sector

2022

Research by Design celebrates relationships with 70 separate membership clients

2023

Student insights tracker developed

Testimonials

“RBD act as partners in a project, and listen closely to the needs our organisation has from the research. Throughout the process they understood the analytical nature of our membership and met these enhanced requirements. Care and attention to detail has really been a focus in this iteration of our member survey. RBD’s deep understanding of our needs has meant that we have had an efficient and successful research project, professionally managed and a pleasure to work on throughout.”

Membership Recruitment and Development Specialist, RSC

Member of Member Wise Member of Memcom