This document consolidates the policies governing the use of the Connect Research platform. By using the platform, all users agree to abide by the following:
- Privacy Policy
- Code of Conduct
- Dispute Resolution Policy
- Payment and Fees Policy
- Refund and Cancellation Policy
1. Privacy Policy
1.1 Data Collection and Use
1.1.1 Types of Information Collected:
- Personal Information: Includes name, contact details, professional background, payment info, and project details.
- Project Information: Scope, timelines, deliverables, and milestones collected for facilitation and monitoring.
- Communications: Messages exchanged between clients and consultants are recorded for management and compliance.
1.1.2 Data Retention:
Data is retained only as necessary for functionality, compliance, dispute resolution, and record-keeping. Unneeded data is securely deleted or anonymized.1.2 Purposes of Data Collection
- Platform Functionality: Enables project posting, milestone tracking, payment, and dispute management.
- Confidentiality and NDA: Mutual NDAs apply to accepted projects, ensuring all shared info remains confidential.
1.3 Data Security
1.3.1 Encryption and Storage
Industry-standard encryption protects personal and project data during transmission and storage.
1.3.2 Access Controls
Only authorized personnel can access sensitive data using role-based permissions and access logging.
1.4 Third-Party Data Handling
1.4.1 Service Providers
Limited data may be shared with third parties (e.g., for payments), under strict confidentiality agreements.
1.4.2 External CRO Data
Externally sourced CRO data is public; its accuracy isn’t guaranteed and is only used for matching, not stored.
1.4.3 No Unauthorized Sharing
Data is never sold or shared for marketing or advertising.
1.5 User Rights and Control
1.5.1 Profile Management
Users can update their profile information through account settings.
1.5.2 Data Access and Correction
Users may request data access or updates by emailing: contact-us@connectresearch.ca
1.5.3 Data Deletion
Account deletion requests can be sent to support. Data is securely deleted unless retention is legally required.
1.6 Confidentiality, NDA, and IP Rights
1.6.1 NDA Agreement
Posting and accepting project implies automatic NDA agreement, prohibiting unauthorized disclosures.
1.6.2 IP Ownership
All project-related IP belongs to the client unless otherwise agreed in writing.
1.6.3 Confidential Reviews
Client feedback is confidential and used internally for quality monitoring.
1.7 Dispute Resolution and Data Use
1.7.1 Data Usage in Disputes
Communication and project data may be used in disputes as per the Terms of Service.
1.7.2 Payment Disputes
Project data may also support refund or payment dispute processes.
1.8 Cookies and Tracking
1.8.1 Cookies
Used to enhance experience, track sessions, and store preferences. They do not contain sensitive data.
1.8.2 Opt-Out Options
Users can disable cookies via browser settings, though some functionality may be affected.
1.9 Policy Modifications
Updates may occur to reflect legal or operational changes. Users will be notified via email or platform notices. Continued use implies acceptance.
2. Code of Conduct
A professional, respectful, and secure environment is essential. All users must:
- Promote professionalism and respect
- Maintain clear and courteous communication
- Uphold platform integrity
2.1 Professional Conduct
- Respect all users
- Communicate promptly and constructively
- Be honest about qualifications and project details
2.2 Prohibited Activities
- Harassment or discrimination
- Fraudulent behavior (e.g., fake profiles or deliverables)
- Violating NDAS
2.3 External Tools
Use of tools like Zoom is permitted if confidentiality is maintained.
2.4 Responsibilities
- Clients: Provide clear project descriptions and uphold confidentiality
- Consultants: Deliver quality work on schedule
2.5 Reporting Violations
Violations should be reported to contact-us@connectresearch.ca with supporting evidence.
2.6 Consequences
Violations may lead to warnings, loss of escrow, suspension, or account termination.
3. Dispute Resolution Policy
3.1 Scope
Covers disputes related to:
- Unfinished deliverables
- Missed milestones
3.2 Dispute Process
- Direct Resolution: Users must first attempt to resolve issues through platform communication.
- Mediation: If unresolved, submit a request. Admins review project data and propose solutions.
3.3 Submission Deadlines
Disputes must be raised within 5 days of the completion/milestone date. Late submissions may be declined unless justified.
3.4 Final Decision
Mediation outcomes are binding unless escalated to arbitration/legal action. Escrowed funds may be held during resolution.
4. Payment and Fees Policy
4.1 Scope
Applies to all platform-related financial transactions.
4.2 Payment Process
- Clients fund projects in full before starting.
- Funds are held in escrow and released upon project completion resolution.
4.3 Fees
- Commissions are deducted from both parties.
- Fees and taxes (collected via Stripe Tax) are disclosed before payment.
5. Refund and Cancellation Policy
5.1 Eligibility
Refunds may be requested if:
- Deliverables are not met
- Project is canceled pre-start
5.2 Process
- Before Start: Requires mutual agreement. Submit requests to contact-us@connectresearch.ca
- During Project: Assessed based on work completed vs. uncompleted.
5.3 Non-Refundable Fees
Refunds do not cover issues from third-party tools.
5.4 Timelines
Requests must be made within 5 days of project completion.
6. Updates and Contact Information
6.1 Policy Updates:
Users will be notified of major policy changes via:
- Email (30 days prior)
- Platform dashboard notifications
6.2 Opt-In Process
Continued use after 14 days of notification implies acceptance unless users object by emailing contact-us@connectresearch.ca
6.3 Contact
Acknowledgment and Acceptance
By using Connect Research, all users confirm that they have read, understood, and agree to these policies.