Vision Critical Launches Sparq, Opens in Australia

Custom online panel firm Vision Critical has announced a new branch in Sydney, Australia, extending its presence into the Asia Pacific region. Kris Hartvigsen will lead the operation as MD, Australia. Last week, the firm announced the release of its newest online research platform, Sparq.

Hartvigsen brings a wealth of experience from work with companies and brands including the BBC, Hewlett Packard, National Geographic, Time Warner and Condé Nast publications. He joined the company in May 2005 and a year later was promoted from Director to VP of Business Development, leading sales efforts in the Media, Technology and Ad Agency verticals.

CEO Angus Reid comments: 'I'm thrilled to be expanding our footprint and to be delivering our unique blend of research talent and technology in one of the fastest growing corners of the world.'


The new web-based Sparq platform allows clients to conduct all their online research through one system, from visual surveys to custom panels and private communities. One of its key promises is greater access to new tools for transforming text-based surveys into more visually appealing experiences that improve long-term respondent engagement.

'Companies want to engage with their customers in innovative ways, using virtual page turning or click-maps, photos and videos instead of text', said CTO Manuel Zahariev. 'By baking these tools right into Sparq, and making them easily available and affordable, we are changing the way researchers approach online research.'

Deloitte recently named Vision Critical the 5th fastest growing technology company in Canada and the 54th fastest in North America.

The company is online at www.visioncritical.com while Sparq has its own section at www.visioncritical.com/sparq .