Marketing Research and Insight Glossary

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

What is Lifecycle Research?

Content Type:
Glossary
Share Print

Lifecycle Research Definition

Research which is focused on a group set apart from others because of age and/or because of the activities and events that surround that age. Examples include seniors, teenager, expectant mothers, empty nesters etc.

Lifecycle research in marketing research is the study of a product, brand or customer segment across its entire lifecycle – from introduction and growth to maturity and decline – to understand trends, behaviors and strategic opportunities at each stage.

What are key characteristics of lifecycle research in marketing research?

  • Examines different stages of a product, brand or customer lifecycle.
  • Combines historical, current and predictive data.
  • Uses both qualitative and quantitative methods.
  • Identifies stage-specific opportunities and risks.
  • Tracks shifts in consumer behavior over time.
  • Informs timing for marketing, innovation and repositioning.

Why is lifecycle research important in market research?           

Lifecycle research is important because it helps businesses anticipate changes in market demand, optimize product and brand strategies for each lifecycle stage and allocate resources effectively to extend profitability and market relevance.

Who relies on lifecycle research in marketing research?            

Product managers, brand managers, marketing strategists, innovation teams, market researchers and corporate planners rely on lifecycle research to guide decision-making and investment timing.

How do market researchers use lifecycle research?      

Market researchers use lifecycle research to analyze performance metrics, consumer adoption patterns, competitive dynamics and market trends at each lifecycle stage. Insights from this research shape marketing campaigns, product enhancements, pricing strategies and retirement or relaunch decisions.