Business Administration: Market Research

"Market research helps you find customers for your business. Competitive analysis helps you make your business unique. Combine them to find a competitive advantage for your small business."

An overview of market research: benefits, questionnaires, analysis, and common errors from the SBA.

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"They can be used to access key demographic information, and then you can find out just about anything—from what customers like about your brand to what kind of product your market needs."

"There are many reliable sources that provide customer and market information at no cost. Free statistics are readily available to help prospective small business owners."

Use "Barnes Report" and your industry as keywords in EBSCO to access reports. "Managers, planners, and market researchers use this information for a variety of activities...sizing markets and segments, sales territory potential, sales forecasting, advertising strategies, and competitive analysis."

"QuickFacts provides statistics for all states and counties, and for cities and towns with a population of 5,000 or more."

"Local planners and entrepreneurs can use Census Bureau business data to identify the presence of business deserts and fill the void in key industries."