GDPR-Compliant · On-Premise AI · Multimodal
Observation Studio – The GDPR-Compliant Platform for Multimodal Research
- GDPR-Compliant On-Premise AI
- 120+ Sensors via LSL
- Eye Tracking + EEG Sync
- Made in Germany
Why European Researchers Choose Observation Studio
Cloud-based multimodal research platforms increasingly raise compliance concerns for European research institutions. Mangold Observation Studio processes all data – including AI-driven facial expression emotion analysis – exclusively on-premise on your own hardware. No transfers to external cloud providers, no Schrems-II concerns, no compliance hurdles with sensitive participant data. This is the GDPR-compliant choice for European universities, research institutes, and industry clients.
The Future of Multimodal Research
Solve complex research questions with Observation Studio - The most powerful platform for capturing and analyzing multimodal data.
Connect almost any Research Device
Seamlessly collect and synchronize data streams from over 120 supported sensors and devices using the LSL protocol.
Record Multiple Participants
Simultaneously record data from a practically limitless number of participants (within the scope of what is technically feasible).
Leverage Advanced AI Analysis
Process data automatically using GDPR-compliant AI facial expression analysis and advanced processing algorithms.
Control Your Entire Research Network
Centrally manage all devices and optimize network settings through automated protocols from a single interface.
Manage Sessions Effortlessly
Access, organize, and replay all recorded sessions through an intuitive interface with powerful search capabilities.
Integrate Custom Surveys
Use individually configurable questionnaires in Observation Studio to conduct surveys about your test objects.
Add Real-time Annotations
Mark important moments during recording or review with precise timestamps and detailed annotations.
Navigate Data Efficiently
Jump between key moments instantly using marker-based sequence controls and smart timestamps.
Control Study Flow Precisely
Create experiments with timed presentation of media content and questionnaires.
Share Data Seamlessly
Exchange research data effortlessly between compatible applications and platforms.
Customize Your Workspace
Arrange windows and visualizations exactly how you need them for optimal data analysis.
Extend Functionality
Connect to external systems and expand capabilities through comprehensive API and SDK support.
Modular Design, Limitless Research
Build your perfect research environment with modular components and endless possibilities.
Modular Configuration
Choose and combine modules to match your exact needs.
Future-proof Scalability
Expand your system effortlessly as your research grows.
API Integration
Connect external tools and build custom solutions via API/SDK.
Capture Every Detail.
From Any Source.
Collect and synchronize data from multiple sources to create comprehensive research insights.
Webcam Recording
Capture your users via webcam for facial expression analysis.
AI Emotion Analysis
Calculate emotions via AI analysis from facial expressions.
Screen Recording
Record participant computer screen activity in real-time.
EEG Data
Monitor brain activity with precision EEG measurements.
Eye Tracking
Track eye movements and analyze viewing patterns.
Heart Rate Monitoring
Measure heart rate dynamics including IBI and HRV.
Skin Response
Track arousal levels through skin resistance measurements.
Muscle Activity
Monitor physical stress through EMG measurements.
Survey Integration
Gather participant feedback through integrated surveys.
Speech Analysis
Convert conversations to text using AI transcription.
Data Export
Export your research data in multiple formats.
Additional Sensors
Connect fNIRS, motion tracking, and marker systems.
Scale Your Research with a Powerful Architecture
Scalable and future-proof architecture built to grow with your needs.
Participant Station
Collects all data for each user and sends it live to the central management software.
Multi-user support
Run multiple participant stations simultaneously in the network.
Real-time data streaming
Seamless live data transmission to central management.
Scalable collection
Collect data from multiple user-specific devices per participant.
Observer Station
Displays and records all data streams in real time with network-wide control.
Network-wide control
Centrally manage all participant devices from a single interface.
Real-time monitoring
Display and record all data streams simultaneously in real-time.
Independent recording
Record separate data streams from multiple participants simultaneously or independently as needed.
Extensive Sensor Support
Support for over 120 sensors and devices via the LSL protocol.*
Electrophysiology, EEG, fNIRS, Eye Tracking, Human-Machine-Interfaces, Motion Trackers, Stimulus Systems and more...
ABM, AMTI, ANT, Artinis, BioSemi, bitalino, Bitbrain, Bittium NeurOne, Blackrock Cerebus, Brain Products, BrainVision, CGX, Cognionics, Cortivision, EB Neuro, EGI AmpServer, Emotiv, Enobio, Eye Tribe, EyeLogic, EyeTechDS, Foc.us, g.Tec, GowerLabs, HTC Vive Eye, mBrainTrain, Mentalab Explore, Microsoft Kinect, MindWare, NaturalPoint, Neuracle NeuroHub, NeuroBehavioralSystems, neuroelectrics, Neuroscan, Neurosity Notion, NIRx, OpenBCI, OpenVR, PhaseSpace, Pupil-Labs, Qualisys, Shimmer, SMI, Soterix, SR Research, Starcat, Tobii, Wearable Sensing, Xsens, Zephyr...
* Compatibility must be checked on a case-by-case basis due to ongoing product changes.
We are Shaping the Future of Research in Numerous Areas
One Platform, Endless Research Possibilities.
Study brain activity and neural responses with precise sensor integration.
Analyze behavioral patterns and cognitive responses in controlled environments.
Evaluate and optimize interfaces between humans and technological systems.
Study group dynamics and collaborative behaviors in real-time.
Collect detailed insights into user interactions and emotional responses.
Assess product effectiveness and ease of use through objective measurements.
Analyze human factors and physical interactions in various environments.
Monitor athletic performance and movement patterns with precision.
Track recovery progress and treatment effectiveness in clinical settings.
Study physiological responses and medical interventions with accuracy.
Evaluate player engagement and gameplay experiences in detail.
Measure consumer responses and behavioral patterns in market research.
The Observation Studio Software
Pick and choose modules that best fit your research current needs. Each module offers advanced features and capabilities.
System Components - Always Included
Observation Studio Software (the core application)
This central recording software captures video, audio, and sensor input from every connected participant station on your network. This base package includes one recording license for a single participant station. Additional licenses for the simultaneous recording of multiple participants can be purchased at any time.
Participant Station Software (per test computer)
The Participant Station software sends all data captured on a computer to the Observation Studio recording station on the network. The Participant Station software can be installed on almost any computer that meets the requirements for the selected modules.
Key Advantages:
Time-synced live viewing and recording of audio, video, and marker information, with easy RAW data export for one or multiple participants simultaneously.
Ideal Applications:
This system can be used to analyze participants’ reactions in relation to their interactions with the study subject (e.g., websites, applications, chats, videos, computer tasks, or stimuli from presentation systems such as E-Prime, SuperLab, etc.). Ideal for Scientific Research and Usability, User Experience and Marketing Studies.
Select Modules
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Mangold Observation Studio?
Observation Studio is a multimodal research platform for synchronized acquisition and analysis of sensor data. It supports over 120 devices via the Lab Streaming Layer (LSL) protocol, including eye trackers, EEG, ECG, fNIRS, GSR, and EMG, and offers on-premise AI emotion analysis from facial expressions.
How does Observation Studio differ from other multimodal research platforms?
The key difference is data processing: Observation Studio runs entirely on-premise on your own hardware, including AI emotion analysis. Cloud-based platforms process some data on external servers. For GDPR-compliant research with sensitive participant data, an on-premise architecture is the structurally safer choice. In addition, Observation Studio integrates seamlessly with Mangold INTERACT for deep behavioral coding – an end-to-end single-source integration.
Which sensors are supported?
Over 120 devices via the LSL protocol, including Brain Products EEG, Tobii Eye Tracker, Pupil Labs, BioSemi, NIRx fNIRS, Shimmer, ANT Neuro, EGI, BrainVision, Cognionics, Emotiv, Bittium NeurOne, and many more. A full compatibility list is available.
Does AI emotion analysis work offline?
Yes. AI-based facial expression emotion analysis runs fully on-premise and in real time on your Mangold server – no cloud connection, no transmission of webcam data to external providers. Fully GDPR-compliant.
Can I study multiple participants simultaneously?
Yes. Observation Studio supports multi-participant studies with an essentially unlimited number of Participant Stations (within technical feasibility). Data from all participants is captured centrally and synchronously – ideal for team research, collaborative studies, and learning behavior research.
How do I integrate custom stimuli and surveys?
Observation Studio includes a Stimulus Presentation System for time-controlled presentation of images, videos, and software applications. An integrated Survey module enables custom-configurable questionnaires whose data is directly linked with sensor and observational data.
Can Observation Studio be combined with other Mangold tools?
Yes. Recorded data can be seamlessly analyzed in Mangold INTERACT for behavioral coding and combined with DataView for synchronized numerical data visualization. The entire Mangold suite operates as a single integrated platform.
In which research fields is Observation Studio used?
Observation Studio is used in neuroscience, psychology, human-machine interaction, team research, user experience, usability testing, ergonomics, sports science, rehabilitation, biomedicine, games research, and market research.