Marketing Research Basics

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Questions and Answers

What is the first step in marketing research for a new venture?

  • Analyzing competitors' strengths and weaknesses
  • Conducting interviews with potential customers
  • Defining the purpose or objectives (correct)
  • Determining the price of the product

What is the primary purpose of gathering data from secondary sources in marketing research?

  • To evaluate the performance of past marketing strategies
  • To gather detailed financial data from competitors
  • To create a marketing plan from scratch
  • To assess opportunities and threats in the market (correct)

Which of the following is NOT a potential objective of marketing research?

  • Identify the best manufacturing process (correct)
  • Determine customer purchase preferences
  • Find out how much customers would pay
  • Determine what people think of the product/service

Which method is considered the simplest approach to gathering primary data?

<p>Observation (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What advantage does the upside down pyramid approach provide in competitor analysis?

<p>It provides a clear understanding of competitor strengths and weaknesses (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What role does cross-tabulation of data play in market research?

<p>It provides focused results by comparing multiple variables (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of conducting competitor analysis?

<p>To formulate the market positioning strategy (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes a marketing plan from a business plan?

<p>The marketing plan focuses on marketing activities for one year (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What type of data does marketing research aim to gather?

<p>Information regarding potential customers and market size (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which method is recommended for gathering data on competitors?

<p>Using search engines and social media (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a common data collection instrument mentioned for primary data gathering?

<p>Statistical software (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why should a marketing plan be regularly updated?

<p>To reflect changes in market conditions and business objectives (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Identifying customer expectations about product promotion can help determine what?

<p>The most effective promotion strategy (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a benefit of utilizing networking as a research method?

<p>It provides low-cost insights and valuable contacts (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should be summarized in the competitor analysis as the first step?

<p>The current strategy of each competitor (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What basic questions should a marketing plan aim to answer?

<p>Where have we been, where are we now, and where are we going? (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of a situation analysis in a marketing plan?

<p>To review company history and consider environmental factors (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which element is NOT typically included in the characteristics of an effective marketing plan?

<p>Provides a long-term strategy for growth (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of the marketing mix does 'Place' primarily refer to?

<p>Distribution channels and geographic coverage (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best defines the term 'marketing objectives'?

<p>Quantifiable targets that guide the marketing efforts (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is essential for providing feedback on a marketing plan’s effectiveness?

<p>Performance criteria for monitoring (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a critical decision related to the 'Promotion' element of the marketing mix?

<p>Determining the media alternatives and message budget (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which factor is NOT considered in the internal analysis of a marketing plan?

<p>Market opportunities and threats (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In defining the business situation, what does a situation analysis take into account?

<p>Historical performance and environmental factors (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the first step in preparing an effective social media marketing plan?

<p>Set goals for the marketing effort (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is monitoring the marketing plan essential?

<p>To track specific results based on goals and objectives (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should be avoided when creating social media content?

<p>Focusing solely on brand-related posts (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What role does contingency planning play in implementing a marketing plan?

<p>It prepares the entrepreneur for unexpected situations (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a benefit of a well-executed social media marketing plan?

<p>Increasing production costs (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of market segmentation?

<p>To divide the market into homogeneous groups (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following should be emphasized when establishing goals and objectives?

<p>Limit goals to between six and eight (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the marketing strategy develop in relation to the marketing mix?

<p>A detailed plan integrating product, price, place, and promotion (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What differentiates business-to-business (B2B) marketing from consumer marketing?

<p>Consumer marketing involves direct sales to households (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When budgeting the marketing strategy, what is critical for start-ups regarding their forecasted sales?

<p>To budget between 12 percent and 20 percent of forecasted sales (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How should an entrepreneur evaluate the effectiveness of marketing costs?

<p>By reviewing each cost for effectiveness (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which aspect is part of the pricing strategy within the marketing mix?

<p>Total cost and profit margins (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What aspect should be considered when defining the target market?

<p>Customer characteristics and buying situations (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Competitor Analysis

Analyzing the current strategies, strengths, and weaknesses of competitors in your industry to gain an advantage.

Industry Analysis

Understanding the external factors affecting your business, identifying threats and opportunities.

Marketing Research

Gathering information about the potential market for your product or service, including customer demographics, preferences, and purchasing habits.

Defining Objectives in Marketing Research

The first step in marketing research, where you clearly state what you want to learn and achieve.

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Pricing Research

Determining the ideal price point that balances customer value and profitability.

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Distribution Strategy Research

Understanding the most effective channels for distributing your product or service to reach your target audience.

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Promotion Strategy Research

Identifying the most effective promotional methods to reach your target audience, from advertising to social media.

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Distribution Channel Research

Determining where customers prefer to buy your product or service, be it online, in-store, or both.

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Secondary Data Research

Gathering information from existing sources like industry reports, competitor websites, and government data to understand the market and competitors.

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Primary Data Research

Collecting original information directly from customers or potential customers through surveys, focus groups, interviews, or observations.

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Survey Research

A structured method of gathering data from a group of individuals through a series of questions. It helps to identify customer preferences, opinions, and behavior.

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Focus Group Research

A structured discussion with a small group of carefully selected individuals, moderated by a facilitator, to explore opinions, attitudes, and perceptions about a particular topic.

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Observation Research

Observing customers' behavior in their natural environment, like a store or website, to understand their actions, preferences, and decision-making process.

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Data Analysis

Analyzing and interpreting data collected from both primary and secondary sources to gain valuable insights into the market, customers, and competitors.

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Marketing Plan

A document that outlines the marketing strategies for a specific period, typically one year or more, outlining the goals, target market, marketing mix, budget, and metrics for success.

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Business Plan

A comprehensive document that outlines the overall business strategy, including marketing, operations, finance, and human resources, providing a clear picture of the company's direction and objectives.

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What is a Marketing Plan?

The marketing plan outlines how a company will achieve its marketing goals, focusing on strategies, actions, and budgets, including controls for monitoring performance.

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What is a Situation Analysis?

This involves analyzing your organization's strengths and weaknesses, as well as opportunities and threats in the market.

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What are Market Opportunities?

Understanding the market's needs and trends helps identify potential opportunities, such as new product lines or market expansion.

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What are Market Threats?

These are external factors that could threaten a company's success, such as new competitors or economic downturns.

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What is Competitor Analysis?

This involves analyzing competitors' strategies, strengths, and weaknesses, to gain a competitive advantage.

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What are Marketing Objectives?

These are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound goals for your marketing efforts.

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What is Marketing Strategy?

This details the overall approach to achieving your marketing objectives, including strategies and tactics.

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What is the Marketing Mix?

This refers to the four key elements of marketing: product, price, place (distribution), and promotion.

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Monitoring the Plan

Tracking specific results to measure progress towards marketing objectives.

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Social Media Marketing Plan

It helps build awareness, connect with customers, and drive revenue through various platforms.

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Selecting the Right Platform

Choosing the right platform and approach based on your target audience and goals.

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Identifying Influencers

It involves identifying influencers who can help amplify your brand message and reach a wider audience.

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Assessing and Analyzing

Assessing the plan's effectiveness to understand what's working and what can be improved.

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Market Segmentation

Dividing the market into groups of similar customers based on their characteristics or buying behaviors.

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Target Market

Choosing the specific customer groups a business wants to focus on.

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Marketing Mix

A combination of elements used to reach and influence customers, including product, price, distribution, and promotion.

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Strengths & Weaknesses Analysis

The unique strengths and weaknesses of a business compared to its competitors.

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Marketing Goals & Objectives

Specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound goals for marketing efforts.

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Marketing Strategy & Action Plan

A detailed plan outlining how a company will achieve its marketing goals, including specific strategies and actions.

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Business-to-Business Marketing

Marketing efforts directed towards businesses rather than individual consumers.

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Budgeting the Marketing Strategy

Determining the appropriate budget for marketing activities based on forecasted sales and cost analysis.

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Study Notes

Business Administration - Entrepreneurial Organization

  • Course: Business Administration
  • Chapter: 5
  • Topic: Entrepreneurial Organization
  • Semester: Fall 2024
  • Year: 2024-2025
  • Instructor: Dr. Rana M. Zaki

The Marketing Plan

  • Topic: Entrepreneurship
  • Textbook: Robert D. Hisrich, Michael P. Peters, Dean A. Shepherd, Entrepreneurship, Twelfth Edition
  • Chapter: 5
  • Focus: The Marketing Plan

Industry Analysis

  • Goal: Understanding the environment affecting marketing decisions
  • Methods:
    • SWOT analysis
    • Upside-down pyramid approach
  • Tools: Search engines, library databases, and competitor social media
  • Process: Summarizing competitor strategies, identifying strengths and weaknesses
  • Application: Formulating market positioning for new ventures
  • Key frameworks: Porter's 5 forces, PEST analysis, SWOT analysis, BCG's growth share, perceptual mapping, strategic group analysis

How to do Industry Analysis

  • Key factors: technology, social demographics, competitor analysis, risks and limitations, price sensitivity
  • Essential elements: suppliers, buyers, industry forecast, government regulations, political influences

Marketing Research for the New Venture

  • Purpose: Gathering data for informed decisions
  • Key questions:
    • Who will buy the product?
    • What is the potential market size?
    • What price should be charged?
    • What is the optimal distribution strategy?
    • What is the most effective promotion strategy?
  • Approach: entrepreneur-led or outsourced
  • Initial step: Defining objectives/purpose

Marketing Research Step 1: Defining the Purpose or Objectives

  • Goal: Identify information needs for a marketing plan
  • Examples:
    • Customer perceptions of the product
    • Customer willingness to pay
    • Preferred purchase locations
    • Expected channels for product information

Marketing Research Step 2: Gathering Data From Secondary Sources

  • Source: Industry, market, competitors
  • Tools:
    • Competitor websites and social media
    • National and state government websites
  • Purpose: early assessment of opportunities/threats
  • Next step: Primary data collection if needed

Marketing Research Step 3: Gathering Information From Primary Sources

  • Data collection methods:
    • Observation
    • Networking
    • Interviews/Surveys
    • Questionnaires tailored to business objectives
    • Focus groups (informal discussions)

Marketing Research Step 4: Analyzing and Interpreting the Results

  • Methods: Entering data (computer or manually), summarizing answers, cross-tabulating for focused results
  • Outcomes: In-depth market insights, especially segmentations

Plan Differences: Marketing Plan vs. Business Plan

  • Marketing Plan:
    • Focus: marketing activities (1 year or more)
    • Scope: varies by industry, market, firm size
    • Integration: integral to the business plan, but independent
    • Timeframe: short-term management
  • Business Plan:
    • Focus: entire organization over time
    • Scope: includes multiple facets beyond marketing
    • Integration: comprehensive organizational roadmap
    • Timeframe: updated regularly to keep management focused

Understanding the Marketing Plan

  • Goal: Determine how to compete and operate
  • Steps:
    • Establish strategies
    • Assign costs to each strategy
  • Fundamental questions: Where have we been? Where do we want to go (short-term)? How do we get there?
  • Frequency: Annual preparation

Outline for a Marketing Plan

  • Components:
    • Situation analysis
    • Background of venture strengths/weaknesses
    • Market opportunities/threats
    • Competitor analysis
    • Objectives/goals
    • Strategies/action programs
    • Budgets
    • Controls

Characteristics of a Marketing Plan

  • Needed elements:
    • Strategy for accomplishing the mission
    • Valid assumptions based on facts
    • Organization description for plan implementation
    • Continuity and flexibility
    • Performance criteria for monitoring
    • Feedback mechanisms
  • Context: Understanding the system, external and internal factors, and the mix affecting marketing decisions

The Marketing System

  • Components: External environment (economy, culture, technology, demand, raw materials, competition), Internal environment (financial resources, suppliers, goals, management team), Entrepreneur, Market planning decisions, Marketing mix decisions, Marketing strategies directed to customers, customer purchase decisions
  • Source: R. Kerin, S. Hartley, and W. Rudelius, Marketing, 12th ed. (New York: McGraw Hill/Irwin, 2015), 40–47

Critical Decisions for Marketing Mix

  • Variables:
    • Product: Materials, style, features, brand name, packaging
    • Price: Quality image, list price, discounts, payment terms
    • Place (Channels): Wholesalers, retailers, channel length, geographic coverage, inventory, transportation, electronic channels
    • Promotion: Media alternatives, message, budget, personal selling, sales promotion, social media, website

Preparing the Marketing Plan

  • Steps:
    • Review business situation
    • Define target market
    • Segment and target customers (homogeneous groups)
    • Describe customer characteristics or buying situations
    • Select target segments
    • Develop a marketing plan that integrates the marketing mix

Considering Strengths and Weaknesses and Establishing Goals and Objectives

  • Importance: Recognizing internal factors in relation to the targeted market
  • Goal setting: Defining realistic marketing goals—where to go—in terms of market share, profits, sales, etc.
  • All goals must be quantifiable; limit goals to 6–8

Defining Marketing Strategy and Action Plan

  • Goal: Implementing strategies, defining objectives—how to get there
  • Elements:
    • Product/service description (tangible and intangible characteristics)
    • Pricing strategies (considering total costs, markups, competition)
    • Distribution channels (middlemen, manufacturer reps, brokers)
    • Promotion methods (informing customers)

Marketing Strategy: Business-to-Business Versus Consumer Markets

  • Differences: varying strategies for business vs. consumer products
  • Consumer focus: personal consumption sales to households
  • B2B focus: more direct distribution channels
  • Mix: same marketing mix, but significant differences in techniques and strategies

Budgeting the Marketing Strategy

  • Consideration of costs: Integral to planning
  • Budgeting as percentage of forecasted sales (12–20 percent)
  • Cost breakdowns: Essential for effective allocation

Implementing and Monitoring the Marketing Plan

  • Commitment: Consistent implementation and willingness to modify
  • Responsibilities: Assignment of a coordinator
  • Monitoring: Track results based on objectives
  • Contingency planning: Preparedness for unexpected events

Appendix 8A: The Social Media Plan

  • Benefits: Building awareness, connecting with customers, boosting SEO, growing mailing lists, increasing revenue
  • Steps: Set goals, select platforms/approach, identify influencers, link to company website, assess/analyze effectiveness

Appendix 8A: Pitfalls of Social Media

  • Patience: Relationship cultivation takes time
  • Strategy: Essential for effective branding
  • Avoiding over-reliance on a single brand message
  • Analytics: Tracking effectiveness is crucial
  • Integration: Tie social media to company website

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