Industry Research

The Incentive and Engagement Solution Providers (IESP), a strategic industry group within the Incentive Marketing Association (IMA), sponsored a comprehensive survey in 2023 aimed at uncovering the latest trends, preferences, and strategies in the rewards industry. Download this summary report to see their study results.

This report provides a recap of research and best practices presented and discussed during a recent roundtable discussion on trends in employee recognition and rewards. Key takeaways include the importance of easy access, a curated rewards portfolio and frequent communication about the program.

The Incentive Research Foundation’s 2024 Industry Outlook Study shows the overall outlook for the industry remaining positive, but effects of the ongoing economic and labor markets are having an impact. Download this summary report to see their study results (Dec 2023).

This presentation by the Incentive Federation provides guidance on tax regulations relating to incentive, recognition and safety programs.

This infographic by the Incentive Federation provides visual guidance on tax regulations relating to incentive, recognition and safety programs.

The 2022 Trends Report from the Incentive Research Foundation highlights key trends in the world of rewards and recognition. There are more changes than ever in today’s workforce, emphasizing the importance of effective recruitment, retention and engagement of employees. Incentive programs are more important than ever for today’s employers. Published by The Incentive Research Foundation (2022).

This Academic Research in Action piece from the Incentive Research Foundation offers great perspective and research supporting the positive impact of non-cash awards on performance. The findings show that people will increase effort and achieve greater performance towards awards they can mentally separate from salary.

Includes best practices and valuable tips from incentive experts. Their insights were gathered during interviews and research, providing practical guidance for managers and others who design reward programs. Published by the Incentive Research Foundation (2021).

This tool from the Incentive Research Foundation offers general budgeting guidelines for broad-based employee recognition programs. Their guidelines offer budget suggestions based on industry averages and best practices.

This infographic from the Incentive Research Foundation offers a great overview on six categories to recognize employees: milestones, behaviors, learning, safety & wellness, ideas/suggestions and actions. This is a great reference tool for managers and program administrators to keep on hand.