Understanding & Solutions, Decision Tree merge

Companies form Futuresource Consulting

By Susanne Ault -- Video Business, 6/9/2008

JUNE 9 | Media research firms Understanding & Solution and Decision Tree Consulting are merging to form the new company Futuresource Consulting.

To be based in the U.K, Futuresource should benefit from the two companies’ different research strengths. DTC is best known for data manipulation and presentation software, and U&S is strong for its forecasting capabilities within various media fields, including DVD, Blu-ray Disc and digital content distribution.

Many top people at U&S and DTC are transitioning to similar roles at Futuresource. Jim Bottoms, formerly U&S director, is managing director of corporate development at Futuresource. The new company’s management also includes Sarah Carroll, director of strategy consulting and continuous services; Tony Bicknell, managing director of business development; and Andrew Snoad, director of client services and custom solutions.

“A number of shared clients already combine DTC’s and Understanding & Solutions’ expertise to ensure the market knowledge, forecasts and strategic support delivers the best possible results,” said Bottoms. “This merger will provide these full benefits across our complete service range.”

Bicknell, formerly with DTC, added, “Understanding & Solutions’ market insight and unsurpassed forecasting skills will take our pricing monitors and real-time research systems to the next level. We’re now in a position where we can provide a full-service data and forecasting solution to businesses operating in a very challenging and dynamic marketplace.”