BioNews survey 2012: The results

A huge thank-you to the 700 readers who took the time to complete our survey earlier this year. As with previous surveys, the results will be invaluable for the future development of BioNews, to ensure it continues to meet the needs of our readers. It will also help us provide information on our readership to funders and sponsors - vital for helping keep BioNews a free resource during these financially challenging times. Below are some of the key findings and suggestions.

Who are you?

Our readership shares a common interest in genetics, fertility or embryo research and practise, and represents a wide range of occupations. These include fertility health professionals, genetic health professionals, scientific researchers, ethicists, lawyers, policy-makers, social scientists, journalists, students, lecturers, schoolchildren and teachers. Just over half of you live in the UK, although BioNews continues to have a global reach, with readers in 44 different countries around the world.

Why do you read BioNews?

The most popular responses given were to keep up to date with the latest news; to learn what's happening in your field; for research or study purposes; and for its clear explanations of complex issues. We were delighted that almost a third of respondents said they read BioNews because it carries stories found nowhere else — up from nine per cent in 2010.

What changes would you like to see?

We were pleased that the majority of respondents agree that BioNews is clearly laid out, easy to navigate and visually attractive. When asked what changes could be made to the design or layout of BioNews, the most popular answer by far was: 'Please don't change it, I like it as it is'. In terms of content, 78 percent would like to see more articles providing in-depth explanations of key topics in BioNews. More than 200 readers said they would like to see more interviews with key figures, and more news stories.

The BioNews team aims to continue to bring you timely news and opinion from the world of genetics, fertility treatment and related areas such as embryo stem cell research. They want BioNews to remain a key source of exclusive expert opinion, clearly explained scientific concepts and the latest policy news - all packaged into a well-designed, clearly laid-out, free weekly email. They'd also love to work on some of the new features you'd like to see in BioNews, but to do all this they really need your help.

So please take a minute to consider doing one of the following:

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  Share, Tweet, or blog about articles that interest you in BioNews - this will not only spread the word, but it will also let us know what stories you like and what we should be covering more of.

  
  
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  Send a BioNews email or link to the website to someone you think may find it useful, and encourage them to sign up - according to the survey 98 percent of you would recommend it to a colleague.

  
  
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  If you value BioNews, please make a donation of £5 - or more - now. Doing so couldn't be easier: you can donate online through Paypal here, text 'PROG23 £5' (or whatever amount you like) to 70070, or send a good old-fashioned cheque (payable to 'Progress Educational Trust') to 'Progress Educational Trust, 140 Gray's Inn Road, London WC1X 8AX, UK'.