Technology helps us do great research. We run online interviews, join focus groups, share reports, and talk to clientsl, often from home. Everything feels smooth when tools work. But what happens when they don’t? A slow internet, a frozen video call, or a crashing app can ruin a meeting. It causes delays, stress, and confusion. But the good news? You can fix it. And even if you can’t fix it fast, you can still keep things on track. Let’s explore what to do when technology fails during research and how to bounce back quickly.
Stay Calm and Communicate
If you hit a tech issue during a meeting, don’t panic. The first thing to do is let others know. Whether it’s a client, a teammate, or a respondent, send a quick message or email.
A simple note like, “I’m having a tech problem, working on it now” is enough. It tells people you care, you’re present, and you’re doing your best.
Staying open and honest builds trust, and keeps things professional, even during a glitch.
Check the Internet Connection
The most common problem is weak internet. If your video freezes or sound drops, check your connection speed.
You can:
- Run an online speed test (just Google “speed test”).
- Reset your Wi-Fi router.
- Move closer to your router.
- Turn off other apps that are using bandwidth.
Even turning off video can help. Less video = more speed.
Restart the App or Device
Sometimes the fix is easy. Just close the app, Zoom, Google Meet, Teams and open it again. It clears out small bugs or memory issues.
If the problem doesn’t go away, restart your whole computer or device. Yes, it takes a minute. But it often works like magic.
Switch to Another Device
If your laptop keeps acting up, grab your phone or tablet. Most meeting tools work well on mobile, and you can rejoin the session in seconds. It’s smart to keep a spare device nearby. A backup tablet or an old laptop can be a lifesaver when your main one fails.
Turn Off Video to Save the Call
If your screen keeps freezing, switch to audio-only mode. You’ll use less internet, and the sound quality may improve. Let others know: “I’m turning off video to keep the audio clear.” They’ll understand. In research calls, what matters most is what’s said—not always what’s seen.
Join by Phone if Needed
Still having trouble? Join the meeting by dialing in with your phone.
Every video app offers a call-in number. Just click the link or enter the digits manually. Some platforms even let you request a call to your number, so you don’t have to type anything.
This backup option keeps you connected—even when Wi-Fi is down.
Know Multiple Tools
One way to stay ready is to learn different meeting platforms. If Zoom crashes, switch to Google Meet. If Teams won’t open, try GoToMeeting.
Knowing how to move between tools is a big help, especially if you work with many clients or run sessions often.
Try practicing with:
- Zoom
- Google Meet
- Microsoft Teams
- GoToMeeting
- Webex
Keep a list of logins and backup links just in case.
Be Creative with Tools
Technology failure doesn’t only happen in video calls. Sometimes other tools stop working too.
Say your screen-sharing tool doesn’t load. What now?
You can:
- Email slides to participants in real time.
- Use PowerPoint or Word to highlight sections.
- Share your screen from another device.
Good research doesn’t stop when tools fail. It adapts.
Final Thoughts: Be Ready, Stay Flexible
In market research, we depend on technology, but we shouldn’t fear it. Glitches will happen. What matters is how we prepare and respond.
Here’s a quick recap:
- Keep communication open
- Know how to test and fix internet issues
- Restart apps or switch devices
- Use backup methods like phone or audio-only
- Be flexible with tools and platforms
When technology fails, you don’t have to. Your calm mindset, clear plan, and resourceful actions are what keep the session going and your clients happy.
