Methodologies
At Sensory Center of Atlanta, we offer a comprehensive suite of research methodologies tailored to uncover authentic consumer insights. Whether your product is in the concept phase or already on shelves, our qualitative and quantitative methods—supported by home use testing, scent studies, and tactile evaluations—deliver clear, actionable data to help you make confident decisions. Not sure which test or combination of tests are right for your needs? Contact us today to explore your options.
Qualitative Research
Get to the heart of the consumer experience.
Our qualitative research methods are designed to dive deep into consumer perceptions, preferences, and emotions. Through focus groups, in-depth interviews, and ethnographic studies, we uncover the why behind consumer behaviors. These insights provide a rich understanding of how your products and brand resonate with real people in real situations.
- In-person focus groups and interviews
- Online qualitative platforms
- Ethnographic and observational research
Whether you’re exploring new concepts, testing prototypes, or refining messaging, our qualitative research uncovers the human stories that drive consumer choices.


Quantitative Research
Data-driven insights you can rely on.
Our quantitative methodologies deliver statistically significant data that helps you make informed, confident decisions. We use large-scale surveys, central location testing, and sensory panels to gather measurable insights about consumer preferences, product performance, and market potential.
- Consumer surveys (online & in-person)
- Sensory testing & central location tests (CLTs)
- Concept & product validation
From early-stage product development to post-launch evaluations, our quantitative research provides the numbers you need to back up your strategies.
Home Use Testing
Real feedback from real-world use.
Home Use Tests (HUTs) place your product in the hands of consumers, letting them experience it in their own homes as part of their daily routines. This methodology delivers authentic feedback on how your product performs in real life—offering valuable insights into satisfaction, usability, and purchase intent.
- Authentic, in-home evaluations
- Longitudinal feedback over time
- Deeper understanding of usage behaviors
HUTs allow you to assess performance outside the lab, ensuring your product fits seamlessly into consumers’ lives before going to market.


Scent Testing
Harness the power of fragrance to create emotional connections.
Scent plays a powerful role in shaping consumer perception, emotion, and memory. Our scent testing methodologies help you evaluate the impact of fragrances on product appeal and brand experience. Whether integrated into a product, packaging, or retail environment, we test how scents enhance emotional engagement and brand affinity.
- Fragrance evaluation & preference testing
- Scent performance over time
- Emotional & behavioral impact studies
From personal care to home care and beyond, we help ensure your scent strategy enhances product desirability and strengthens your brand identity..
Tactile Testing
Optimize the feel of your products and packaging.
How a product feels in a consumer’s hands can make or break their experience. Our tactile testing services evaluate texture, weight, ergonomics, and overall sensory feel—whether it’s the smoothness of packaging, the comfort of a grip, or the fabric of a wearable product.
- Texture and Material Evaluations
- Ergonomic and Handling Assessments
- Sensory Feedback on Product and Packaging Feel
We provide actionable insights that help you refine physical attributes for improved user experience, product satisfaction, and brand perception.

Suites
Auditorium
Sensory Center of Atlanta’s 1000-square-foot auditorium with a ten-foot ceiling offers flexible, partitioned space ideal for large-scale research projects. Designed to accommodate studies that involve oversized items—including two full-size automobiles and expansive environments—it’s perfect for display tests, mock juries, collaborative ideation sessions, and anything else you may need.
Sensory Suites
Sensory Center of Atlanta’s 1,350 square-foot test kitchen is an extraordinary facility for sensory studies. It’s designed for efficiency and flexibility in food and beverage research, with commercial-grade appliances, commercial and residential ovens, and walk-in coolers. With ample prep space, it offers R&D teams precision and control while providing marketing teams with a comfortable environment for taste tests.
Computerized Test Labs
You won’t find more innovative spaces than Sensory Center of Atlanta’s Computerized Test Labs at more competitive prices. We can seat up to 30 participants at comfortable stations that offer privacy and reliable high-speed WiFi. Adjacent Client viewing rooms and lounges are designed for comfort and convenience, with mini bars, snacks, and massage chairs.
Flex/Focus Suites
Sensory Center of Atlanta’s flexible focus suites adapt to any research need, with three rooms seating 30+ and one-way mirrors for observation. We offer ventilated spaces for scent tests, changing booths, portable sinks, and fully customizable environments—whether replicating a backyard, hospital, bar, or home setting—to ensure participants feel at ease and clients gain authentic, actionable insights.
Industries We Serve
Our goal is to help you uncover the key insights you need to connect with your consumers and build leading brands in your industry. While we have extensive experience in the industries listed here, our multi-faceted, super-flexible facility makes it easy for us to expand beyond. We can accommodate whatever your study requires, including immersive environments for realistic testing, luxurious client lounges, and spacious viewing areas designed to capture authentic feedback and refine products for market success.