By Carlos Dreyfus, Co-founder of Bohemian Research

At Bohemian Research, we believe that market research is undergoing a radical transformation. AI-powered DIY research tools are lowering barriers to entry, enabling businesses of all sizes to conduct research faster and more affordably than ever before.

However, the shift to DIY research isn’t without its challenges. While it provides speed and accessibility, research quality still depends heavily on the expertise of the individual setting it up. "DIY research is only as good as the person designing it," as I often remind our clients. In some cases, DIY researchers could lack the specialized knowledge to avoid biases, ensure proper question design, or reach the right audience. This is where AI is making a significant impact.

AI-Powered DIY Research: A Game Changer

AI is not just accelerating research—it’s making it smarter. At Bohemian Research, we empower researchers, small businesses, insights teams, and agencies to create surveys and interviews, analyze qualitative and quantitative data, and generate insights without requiring deep research expertise. AI now assists with everything from research development to real-time moderation of qualitative studies, ensuring a higher standard of data collection.

By leveraging AI, independent researchers and small agencies can compete at a level that was previously reserved for full-scale agencies. AI-driven insights tools also help larger agencies streamline their processes, allowing them to reduce costs and increase efficiency. As a result, even well-established firms are turning to AI to optimize their research operations.

Will DIY Research Replace Traditional Agencies?

The rise of AI-powered DIY research does not mean agencies are obsolete. "DIY research won’t fully replace agencies, but it will open market research to companies that previously couldn’t afford it," I explain to those navigating this shift. While startups and SMBs will benefit most from AI-driven research, large-scale enterprises will continue to rely on agencies for complex, high-stakes research that requires deep industry expertise.

Agencies will remain indispensable for:

• Research that requires specialized methodologies or deep strategic insights.

  
  

• Access to hard-to-reach audiences, such as luxury consumers or medical professionals.

  
  

• Managing large-scale, long-term research projects where historical data and industry relationships are crucial.

The Hybrid Future of Market Research

The future is not about choosing between DIY research and full-service agencies—it’s about integrating both. We are moving toward a hybrid model, where AI-powered DIY research coexists with traditional agencies, allowing each to focus on their strengths. Larger agencies may evolve into platform models, managing networks of smaller AI-driven researchers while ensuring quality and compliance.

For researchers, agencies, and brands alike, the key takeaway is clear: those who embrace AI and automation will thrive, while those who resist change risk falling behind. As AI continues to evolve, it will further democratize market research, making high-quality insights accessible to more businesses than ever before.