Marketing Research and Insight Glossary

Definitions, common uses and explanations of 1,500+ key market research terms and phrases.

What is a Boundary?

Research Topics:
Marketing Research-General
Content Type:
Glossary
Share Print

Boundary Definition

The border around a market area that is being studied.

In marketing research, a boundary defines the limits and scope of a study or analysis. In addition, it defines particular parameters and focus of a study, including geographical area, target audience and time frame. This structure permits studies to be more focused, manageable and relevant. In  other words, a boundary outlines relevant factors that confine the focus of research. Without boundaries, research can be too broad and unfocused, thus leading to possibly inaccurate or misleading findings. Creating well-defined boundaries ensures the study is manageable, relevant and actionable.

Who relies on a boundary?

Boundaries have several relevant uses in the marketing research industry. For instance, companies seeking to release new products utilize boundaries to determine target audiences. Also, researchers and market analysts use key principles of boundaries in formulating the scope and limits of their studies. What’s more, marketing teams rely on boundaries to set strategies in target markets.

Why should I care about a boundary?

Clear boundaries define research objectives, eliminate information overload and extract actionable insights. Setting boundaries is a major step in ensuring studies are more focused and relevant, thus allowing marketing professionals and business leaders to allocate resources efficiently and make informed strategic choices. The bottom line is that grasping the significance of boundaries enhances the quality and impact of research endeavors.