Client Spotlight:
Explorer Research

How TUCU helped Explorer Research build the secure IT infrastructure needed to win major corporate clients and support their growth from startup to the go-to shopper research agency.

Client Since 2017

INDUSTRY

Market Research & Consumer Behavior Analysis

TEAM SIZE

60-70 staff

SOLUTIONS

RESULTS AT A GLANCE

About Explorer Research

Explorer Research specializes in shopper behavior research, emphasizing in-situation testing combined with biometrics to measure both the emotions and behaviors of shoppers. Their deep understanding combined with a consultative approach results in optimized shopper strategies and activations that drive sustained growth. Working with global brands across retail, CPG, and Tech, Explorer Research has established itself as a leader in shopping behavior insights.

The Challenge

In 2017, Explorer Research faced a pivotal moment in their growth journey. As opportunities to work with major global brands emerged, they needed to significantly enhance their IT infrastructure and security to meet enterprise-level vendor requirements.

“When Explorer Research sought to respond to RFP’s from major vendors, we realized that we needed to invest in our IT infrastructure and online security in order to grow our business,” recalls Chris Whitaker, Partner at Explorer Research.

The Solution

After receiving a recommendation, Explorer Research partnered with TUCU to transform their IT infrastructure. The implementation included:

“TUCU created a network design to meet vendor requirements and set us up to win more new clients and projects,” notes Whitaker.

Positive Impact

The partnership with TUCU enabled Explorer Research to:

Successfully compete for and win major corporate clients
Maintain competitive advantages through robust cybersecurity
Support growth from a small team to the current staffing levels
Enable secure operations for both local and remote teams
Achieve cost efficiency through strategic cloud platform changes
Meet enterprise-level vendor security requirements

“As our ongoing Managed IT Services provider, TUCU manages our network and supports our growing staff with any technical requests they make. We feel we can rely on TUCU for timely IT advice and to act on our behalf with anything pertaining to technology.” -Chris Whitaker

Success Story

Explorer Research’s journey with TUCU culminated in their successful acquisition by Savanta, part of the Next 15 Group, in 2023.

Their growth from a startup to an industry leader with 60+ researchers working with some of the biggest brands in the world demonstrates the importance of having the right IT infrastructure and security foundation.

“I have no hesitation in recommending TUCU to any company seeking an initial network setup or ongoing IT support. TUCU provides personal attention, is extremely responsive, and is great to work with.” – Chris Whitaker

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