Business Details
20 Years
experience
Expert Ethnographic Research for Sustainability Solutions
Indicia Consulting is a pioneering firm dedicated to solving complex human-centered challenges through rigorous ethnographic research and innovative problem-solving methodologies. Since 2006, we have specialized in bridging the gap between human behavior and sustainability, delivering actionable insights that drive measurable outcomes. Our team of cultural anthropologists and applied researchers brings decades of combined experience in energy efficiency, climate change mitigation, and consumer behavior analysis. We distinguish ourselves through our commitment to academic rigor, evidenced by our extensive publications and large-scale projects in energy and sustainability.Our mission is to integrate human factors into strategic planning, transforming output-driven programs into outcome-focused solutions. With a philosophy rooted in empirical research and theoretical frameworks, we provide tailored services including ethnographic fieldwork, program design, and technical advising. Our clients benefit from our unique ability to translate complex behavioral data into practical strategies, supported by a proven track record of success across diverse sectors such as utilities, education, and urban planning.
Services
Ethnographic Research
Behavioral Analysis
Sustainability Strategy
Program Design
Technical Advising
Details
- Year established: 2006
Highlights and features
- We have conducted large-scale ethnographic research in energy and sustainability since 2006
- Our team includes published anthropologists with expertise in behavioral analysis
- We combine academic rigor with practical program implementation strategies
- We specialize in translating complex behavioral data into actionable sustainability solutions
- We maintain partnerships with leading energy and environmental organizations
Services
Ethnographic Research
Our ethnographic research combines immersive fieldwork with academic rigor to uncover behavioral patterns. We employ direct observation, interviews, and cultural analysis to provide deep insights into human-environment interactions. This approach helps organizations develop evidence-based strategies for energy efficiency and sustainability initiatives.
Behavioral Analysis
We analyze decision-making processes through behavioral science frameworks. Our team identifies psychological, social, and environmental factors influencing sustainability practices. This analysis informs targeted interventions that drive measurable changes in energy consumption and environmental behaviors across diverse populations.
Sustainability Strategy
We develop customized sustainability strategies grounded in empirical research. Our approach integrates climate science, policy analysis, and behavioral economics to create actionable roadmaps. These strategies help organizations achieve environmental goals while maintaining operational effectiveness and stakeholder engagement.
Program Design
We design behavior-change programs using proven social science principles. Our process includes needs assessment, intervention design, and outcome measurement planning. Each program is tailored to specific organizational contexts while maintaining scientific validity and practical implementation pathways.
Technical Advising
Our technical advising services provide specialized expertise in energy behavior and sustainability research. We offer guidance on research methodology, data interpretation, and evidence-based policy development. Clients receive access to our team's extensive academic and industry experience in implementing complex behavioral interventions.
People
Susan Mazur-Stommen
Cultural Anthropologist
20+ years researching culture and sustainability. Testified before state governors on energy issues. Conducts fieldwork in diverse environments from industrial facilities to residential homes.
Stephen Paff
Cultural Anthropologist
Combines mathematics and ethnography to study human learning patterns. Experienced educator with expertise in cultural influences on decision-making processes and educational outcomes.
Helena Ottoson
Applied Anthropologist
Specializes in consumer research and cultural analysis. Focuses on behavioral patterns in personal consumption and professional trade practices across diverse demographic groups.
Cherry Hunsaker-Clark
Applied Anthropologist
13 years studying human behavior in consumer and professional contexts. Expert in ethnographic methods for understanding decision-making processes in everyday life scenarios.
Amy Bayersdorfer
Creative Problem Solver
Business strategist with expertise in energy and social justice sectors. Translates complex organizational objectives into actionable plans while mentoring emerging entrepreneurs in sustainability fields.
Questions
What makes your approach to sustainability research unique?
We combine ethnographic fieldwork with behavioral science to create solutions grounded in human experience rather than theoretical models alone.
How do you measure the effectiveness of your programs?
We use mixed-method research designs with both qualitative insights and quantitative metrics to track behavioral changes and environmental impact.
What industries do you typically work with?
We specialize in energy, utilities, education, and urban planning sectors where human behavior significantly impacts sustainability outcomes.
Can you help with government-funded sustainability projects?
Yes, we have experience designing and evaluating federally supported initiatives, including energy efficiency programs and climate resilience planning.
How do you handle complex behavioral challenges?
We employ a 'walkabout' methodology combining direct observation, stakeholder interviews, and cultural analysis to identify root causes and develop targeted interventions.
