Florida market research firms are devoted to helping their business clients discover the preferences and behaviors of their customers. Once that information has been collected, they can ascertain the potential success of their client's national or Florida marketing campaigns. In our current trade-based economy, market research is no longer confined to corporations with big budgets. Small business owners can also take advantage of this competitive edge using low-cost research methods.

Among market research firms, Florida offers a number of top performers. By employing various types of marketing research, Florida business owners are able to compete with businesses across the country. Market research firms in Florida utilize various types of market research to meet the needs of every client. So, what types of market research are used most often?

1. Customer satisfaction studies
2. Mystery shopping
3. Focus groups
4. Ad tracking
5. Sales forecasting
6. Test marketing in Florida and elsewhere
   

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Determine customer satisfaction with Florida market research

Central to marketing research, Florida firms utilize a time-tested favorite. Customer satisfaction studies evaluate the consumer's level of contentment with your product or service. Market research firms in Florida accomplish this by means of customer surveys and exit interviews.

I recommend: Florida-based Amplitude Research, Inc., is a full-service firm with online survey expertise. They specialize in administering customer satisfaction studies and providing advice on the size and method of surveying. Schwartz Consulting Partners, Inc., possesses expertise in customer satisfaction measurement. They are fully equipped to handle domestic and international audiences.

Shop around for Florida market research options like mystery shopping

The concept of mystery shopping is increasing in popularity. To collect data on market research, Florida firms have representatives anonymously shop at a targeted establishment. The representative will document the details of the entire transaction. The data collected is then used to evaluate the interaction between the customer and your staff to see what improvements are needed.

I recommend: A.I.M. Field Service primarily provides mystery shopping services in the southeastern region of Florida. They specialize in shopping retail, financial and tourism providers. Shoppers' Critique International provides unlimited flexibility by serving retail, food and beverage, real estate, automotive and financial markets. In addition, they will conduct on-site, telephone and internet shops for their clients.

Focus on interactive research with Florida market research companies utilizing focus groups

When it comes to interactive market research, Florida marketing research firms recognize the value of using focus groups. The group setting encourages a free exchange of ideas as participants are polled about their feelings on a specific product, service, packaging or ad. Focus groups are also a great way to get feedback on a new product before it is rolled out.

I recommend: Insights Marketing Group, Inc., employs focus group moderators that go beyond simple Q&A; they use a number of exploratory techniques to access the subconscious emotional motives of focus group participants. Another Florida market research company, Mars Research, utilizes a high-tech focus group facility with a large conference room, client viewing areas with closed circuit television, a usability lab and test kitchen.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  The Council of American Survey Research Organizations maintains a searchable member database of research firms. Member marketing firms in Florida are required to abide by the Council's code of ethics.