PC distribution report
A report from Future Computing called "Distribution Overview," describes the market forces that are shaping the major channels of PC distribution. Four major channels - computer specialty stores, value-added resellers (VARS), mass merchants and distributors - plus alternative channels such as direct sales, office specialty stores, software specialty stores and mail-order companies, are examined in detail. The report is designed for sales, marketing and strategic planning executives in personal computer product firms. Contact Future Computing Inc., or Datapro Research.
Geographic database
For retail locations, banks and other site-based businesses that want to research attitudes of households within a radius of their location, Survey Sampling, Inc., provides a methodology for pulling a sample from a radius-based geography. Given the site location, SSI feeds the location into its computerized database along with the desired radius size. The database is then searched by Census tract area or by ZIP code area. With this methodology, the computer decides which geographical areas will fall into the radius by population centroid analysis. Contact Diane Forrest, Survey Sampling, Inc., One Post Road, Fairfield CT 06430.
Advertising analysis
Franklin/Lake, Inc., announces the availability of its customized, com-puter-based service for analysis of competitors' space advertising. The service provides clients with a complete reference manual of actual ads and publicity which have appeared in monitored publications, as well as an Executive Summary analyzing competitors' media expenditures, media selection and ad strategies. The service is designed specifically for industry personnel who need a means to analyze competitor information when planning advertising strategies, communications budgets and media placements. Contact Rita Lukowski, Franklin/Lake Inc., 100 Philadelphia Pike, Wilmington DE 19809.
Summaries of tables
Market Action Research Strategy announces STRATMAP, a software program for use on an IBM compatible PC that summarizes research tables and lengthy research reports. The data entry program speeds data entry and the color, edit and sizing and rotation programs refine a STRATMAP for formal presentation in research reports. Contact Betsy Goodnow, Market Action Research Strategy, 14450 N. 54th PL, Phoenix AZ 85254.