Why the BMJ needs your data

Better data on readers and members means better services

The most useful information for doctors is valid, relevant, and easy to access.1 Unfortunately none of the information that is drowning them at the moment scores highly on these criteria.2 One way to increase the relevance of material to readers is to know much more about them and their needs. Medical publishers may then—through electronic means or modern printing methods—be able to send them information that is more relevant. That is one reason why modern organisations need good information on their members, subscribers, or customers, and that is the main reason why the BMJ has been gathering information on doctors. Unfortunately an ill informed piece of journalism in GP magazine, a British tabloid for doctors, has caused misplaced disquiet about the activities …