Research Topics:

Psychological/Emotion Research | The Business of Research

Content Type:

Glossary

Empirical Research Definition

Research that uses data drawn from observation or experience that are formulated to support insights and generalizations.

Empirical research is the collection and analysis of real-world data – observation and experiences, for instance – to draw conclusions and make informed decisions. In marketing research, that means observing and measuring actual consumer behavior, preferences and market trends. This type of systematic research is based on data and evidence, rather than theoretical or hypothetical concepts. This objective study of real-world data can lead to identifying patterns, correlations and causal relationships in the marketplace. This approach adds to the credibility of marketing practices by promoting evidence-based strategies.

Who relies on empirical research?

Marketing professionals rely on empirical research to enhance strategies that better understand customer needs. What’s more, businesses use this research to measure the impact of their marketing campaigns and to adapt to changing market conditions. Also, researchers use empirical data to contribute to knowledge in the marketing field.

Why should I care about empirical research?

Empirical research provides concrete insights into consumer behavior and market dynamics. By looking at the marketplace through a real-world lens, marketing and business professionals can use study insights to make informed decisions concerning marketing strategies and potential product or service enhancements. Customer service also can be improved. The bottom line here is that using empirical data can reduce the risk of inserting assumptions or guesswork into study results or insights.