Blue Blaze Research

Blue Blaze Research, LLC is a research consultancy based in Durango, Colorado, that designs and implements studies rooted in local contexts. The firm helps organizations understand the distinct needs and conditions of communities, using qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods to gather information, design services, and assess their effectiveness. Its work connects evidence with practical information services and systems.

Projects include an exploratory study of why and how neighborhood book exchanges are created and used; a mobile application for reporting, tracking, and analyzing issues handled by Durango Parks and Recreation rangers; and an assessment comparing hiker engagement with a trail information kiosk before and after its information was redesigned and localized. These examples reflect the firm’s focus on evaluating how people encounter and use services in real-world settings.

The company is led by principals Kathleen Gollner and Tenny Webster, whose backgrounds include cognitive science, sociology, library and information studies, and information research. Blue Blaze Research welcomes questions and collaboration, including inquiries about potential projects.