Marketing Research and Insight Glossary

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

What is a Market?

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Market Definition

Total of all individuals or organizations that represent potential buyers.

In market research, a market refers to a group of potential consumers or businesses with similar needs or interests for a particular product or service. It encompasses the total demand, competition and target audiences that a business can cater to, enabling researchers to analyze and strategize around customer behavior and opportunities within this defined space.

Who relies on a market in market research?

Businesses, product managers, marketers and market researchers rely on understanding markets to tailor strategies and offerings. Investors, policymakers and stakeholders also need market insights to make informed decisions on resource allocation, product development and competitive positioning.

What are key aspects of a market in market research?          

Key aspects include:

  • Target audience: Defines the consumers or businesses with similar needs.
  • Market size: Indicates the potential reach and demand for a product or service.
  • Competition: Involves the existing players in the market and their positioning.
  • Trends and dynamics: Reflects shifts in customer preferences, economic factors and technology impacting the market.

Why is a market important in market research?         

Understanding a market is crucial for identifying potential customers, estimating demand and crafting effective strategies. Market insights help businesses align products with customer needs, uncover growth opportunities, stay competitive and mitigate risks, leading to better resource allocation and ROI.

How do market researchers use a market?   

Market researchers analyze market characteristics, size, growth trends and consumer behaviors to inform strategic decisions. They conduct segmentation to identify target customer groups, assess competitive landscapes and monitor trends, enabling companies to tailor marketing, product development and expansion efforts effectively.