Modern Healthcare magazine released its list of the "Largest Patient Satisfaction Firms". Among these firms was the Dallas-based National Business Research Institute, coming in at number five. The rankings were based on total number of patient satisfaction survey engagements in the healthcare industry in 2006.

For every reason to like a job, there may be an equal and opposite reason not to like it. In fact, there may be more than one reason. This statement may be playing fast and loose with Newton’s law of motion, but current research indicates that more people than ever before are dissatisfied with their jobs.

Repeat business from loyal customers plays a vital role in the success of most businesses. Customers are much more likely to return to your business if they are satisfied customers. Some businesses rely on common sense when deciding what will lead to customer satisfaction. . For example, it seems obvious that customers will want friendly, efficient, service. It seems logical that customers will want quality products and services at a good price. Right? Throw common sense out the window.

RESEARCH - People hear this word and their first response is a big YAWN. Add the word scientific in front of it and many enter a deep sleep.

PROFITS - Say this word and you have people’s attention.

Let me tell you what is exciting about research: RESEARCH = PROFITS

Wouldn’t it be great if a magical crystal ball really existed that would reveal to you the secrets of what your customers want as well as the secret to keeping them returning to your business to increase profitability? It does exist. Only there is nothing magical about it – it is scientific.