Marketing Research and Insight Glossary

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

What is a Final Report?

Research Topics:
Data Visualization/Infographics | Report Deliverables | Report Design | The Business of Research
Content Type:
Glossary
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Final Report Definition

The document that the researcher develops at the conclusion of the research project. Its length varies, but a typical final report includes several sections: a summary of the methodology used, a review of the key findings and the conclusions or interpretations of what the findings mean in light of the research objectives. Some final reports also contain a recommendations section containing suggestions for the client's next steps based on the conclusions of the research. See also research report.

A final report is a comprehensive document developed by researchers at the conclusion of a research project. It encapsulates the entire research process, findings, insights and recommendations. It summarizes the research objectives, methodologies, data collection, analysis and conclusions drawn from the study. Its length varies, but a typical final report includes several sections: summary of the methodology used, review of the key findings and conclusions or interpretations of what the findings mean. The report aims to present a clear and organized representation of the research journey and its outcomes. Some final reports also contain recommendations based on the conclusions of the research. This document also is called a research report. A final report can be a reference point for evaluating marketing initiatives and offering a basis for future planning. What’s more, it promotes transparency by documenting the research’s methodology and sources, which opens the possibility of others to verify and replicate the study, if needed.

Who relies on final reports?

Business executives, marketing managers, product development teams and decision makers look at the final report to determine the accuracy and relevance of research. What’s more, research clients, corporate investors and regulatory bodies study the report to gauge the effectiveness of marketing strategies and make informed business decisions.

Why should I care about final reports?

The final report distills complex research data into actionable insights. A well-prepared report bridges raw data and strategic decision making. What’s more, the report incorporates data-driven findings, market trends and consumer behaviors into a document from which informed choices about product development, market positioning and resource allocation can be drawn.