Research has demonstrated that most human communication is non-verbal, and only measurable by means of observations. Methods range from straightforward live observations with a handheld device to elaborate lab studies, and from video analysis with The Observer^® XT to automatic facial expression recording with FaceReader™. FaceReader is the revolutionary software which automatically analyzes facial expressions: happy, sad, angry, surprised, scared, and disgusted. However, in some cases researchers prefer to code the actual muscles movements themselves. They use the Facial Action Coding System which provides them with a technique for the reliable coding and analysis of facial movements and expressions.

Facial expressions are behaviors which are very difficult to measure objectively, as are most non-verbal behaviors. Ekman and colleagues have developed the FACS for exactly this purpose. With The Observer XT it is possible to manage the whole FACS or parts of it, allowing comprehensive coding when needed. Interested? Read the white paper on this subject.  

Ekman, P.; Friesen, W. (1978). Facial action coding system: A technique for the measurement of facial movement. Palo Alto, Ca.: Consulting Psychologists Press.