For a deep look into the industry today, I recommend the Research Industry Trends Report 2009.

Three key points:

1. The Need for Speed. 70% of market research professionals agree that clients are demanding shorter timelines.

2. The Threat of Commoditization. 73% agree with the idea that the industry is being commoditized with clients less willing to pay for quality.

3. DIY. 63% report that non-researcher management is conducting their own surveys online by themselves.