Corporate So

Market Research

Background

The goal of market research is to characterise and understand markets in terms of the customer base, their needs, values and objectives. This may include the comparison of data across different industry sectors or countries. There are a variety of market research techniques which can be used to understand these issues and collect the relevant data. The findings of the research must then be synthesised and reported in a way that can be used to inform the design, development and placement of products effectively within a market.

Our Approach

In resourcing market research and user requirements activities we put together a dedicated project team who see the assignment through from start to finish. This approach ensures that the project team builds up a detailed and cohesive understanding of the requirements, and can synthesise information from different sources to provide a detailed exploration of the issues in relation to the study objectives.

Our consultants are experienced in conducting research utilising a number of techniques. Approaches vary in the amount and depth of information that can be obtained, and also in the level of intrusiveness to the potential customer. Common approaches include:

• Focus Group;

• One-to-one Interview;

• Prototype Driven Analysis;

• Postal and Telephone Questionnaires;

• Observational Analysis.

Profiling and Accessing the Market

To ensure the quality of the information obtained during market research, it is important to profile the market and access representative samples of users. We have conducted research in the UK, European, North American and Asia Pacific markets and have probed the following industry sectors:

• Police and Emergency Services;

• Health & Pharmaceuticals;

• Utilities;

• Finance and Legal;

• Telecommunications;

• Retail and Distribution.

Focusing on Study Objectives

Market research activities must be focused so that they inform agreed study objectives. Examples of the issues we have explored in recent projects include:

• impact of user requirements and working practices on equipment development;

• pricing and procurement policies in relation to new technology;

• impact of existing legislation on requirements for task support devices;

• maintenance and support requirements;

• strategic planning and corporate direction.

Presenting Results

Corporate Solutions works closely with its clients to identify the best way to gather, analyse, interpret and present the findings of market research activities. This ensures that most value is derived from the results.

Our Experience

Corporate Solutions has extensive experience of providing user requirements related market research to the public and private sectors and in relation to both software, hardware and physical products.  Our clients include Fidelity Investments and the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister.

For more information, please contact us