AI ENABLED INSIGHTS powered by Linkage Research

 About Linkage Research

Welcome to AI Enabled Insights from Linkage Research, where we bring together information, implementation consulting & support, a community of peers, and cutting-edge tools to help insights professionals harness the power of AI.

Meet Michele DeKinder-Smith, President & Founder

I'm Michele DeKinder-Smith, the founder and president of Linkage Research. My journey in the insights field began at the University of Georgia's Masters of Marketing Research (MMR) program and spending my early career at The M/A/R/C Group, Elrick & Lavidge, and on assignment at the insights departments at Frito-Lay and Nestle.

In 1998, I founded Linkage Research to provide unparalleled qualitative and quantitative insights to companies ranging from emerging private-equity backed brands to Fortune 500 giants. Consumer insights have been the cornerstone of my career, and I've dedicated myself to helping businesses make informed decisions that drive powerful results.

Embracing AI for Enhanced Insights

In the Spring of 2023, curiosity led me to experiment with generative AI.  I wanted to see whether ChatGPT could help me learn about potential consumer motivations, needs, and brand selection criteria for a specific type of home improvement company.

The results were astounding. Within seconds, ChatGPT delivered a solid backgrounder and perspective on consumer needs and buying behavior, saving me hours of research on Google. Witnessing the outcome firsthand, I became captivated with understanding how AI could help me and others be more effective in our careers.

A Vision for the Future of Insights

Driven by a passion for innovation and a desire to share what I've learned with others, I immersed myself in AI training, industry events, and collaborative forums, exploring the potential of AI, as well as the challenges and ethical considerations that accompany its adoption in our profession.

Now, armed with extensive knowledge and hands-on experience, my mission is to build a supportive community where individuals can learn, collaborate, and leverage AI to elevate their careers and drive business growth.

Join Us on the Journey

At AI Enabled Insights, we believe in the transformative power of AI to unlock new possibilities in consumer insights. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a newcomer to the field, we invite you to join us on this exciting journey. Together, we can harness the full potential of AI to achieve remarkable results, foster innovation, and free ourselves up to be both more strategic and have better balance.