EDITOR'S LETTER
Research Results
Stephanie K. De Long, Editor-in-Chief

Research is important. It is, in fact, our policy to back our decisions about editorial content with research. It's also why we're forming the Eyecare Business Professional Advisory Panel, a group of ECPs who have agreed to participate in research with us.

Since this is our annual spectacle lens issue, we decided to share just a few lens-related questions we've recently posed in ECP surveys.

PROFITABILITY. In a just-released survey of more than 250 ECPs, we asked: What percent of your practice profits come from: Frames...23%; spectacle lenses... 23%; contact lenses...12%; sunwear...5%; patient exams...33%

BRAND RECOMMENDATIONS. We asked ODs: How often do you discuss brands in the chair? Here's how many said they always discuss: Contact lenses... 42%; spectacle lenses...14%; frames...5%

FUTURE GROWTH. When asked to pick the top categories of spectacle lens growth over the next 12 months, ECPs said: PALs...76%; AR...56%; computer lenses...45%; polarized lenses...30%; photochromics...28%; high-index...27%

In addition to hard numbers, our research also tells us about hot trends and industry issues. In response, we've launched a new series that debuts this month. Called Hot Topics, the series will cover tough industry issues you've told us about. And, just as important, we'll offer some suggestions to help solve them.

Our commitment to research will continue. It's the best way to make sure we are hearing you and responding on our pages with information you need to know.

P.S. Don't miss this month's Seiko-sponsored CE, Reducing Redos and Remakes.