Market research is—or should be—an important part of every company's business strategy. That's why, before moving forward with the manufacture or sale of a new product or offering a new service in the public marketplace, you should always carry out either general or region-specific research based on the size and scope of your intended market. In fact, the market research itself can actually guide you in determining the size and scope of the market you can realistically expect for your product or service—a factor that's critical to the development of any new or ongoing business plan.

In the area of market research companies, Massachusetts is a state which enjoys its fair share of firms. You'll find any number of market research firms in Massachusetts, spread throughout the state, which can help your local business quickly and easily find the crucial data you need to effectively market whatever your company is selling. Market research companies in Massachusetts can help you determine your company's potential share of the action, in that state or elsewhere, through your choice of either online or in-person versions of the following vehicles:

1. Focus Groups;

2. Surveys;

3. Panels;

4. Studies;

5. Interviews; and

6. Data collection.

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

Check out a few market research firms in Massachusetts to get an idea of what they have to offer

By investigating several market research firms in your own region, you'll get a better idea of not only the services that market research companies in general provide, but also the specific focus of each of the local companies you'd likely deal with.

I recommend: A few individual market research firms in MA that you might investigate are Forrester, Cogent Research, Red Brick Design and Focus on Boston.

Find sites that provide info for numerous market research firms in Massachusetts

Quite a few websites provide a valuable service to those seeking market research firms. By presenting lengthy groupings of companies located in various states, they make your job of tracking down the right local firm that much easier.

I recommend: GreenBook, SalesVantage.com, Inc., MarketsDirectory.com and Respond all make Massachusetts marketing research comparison shopping a breeze, providing information on numerous MA market research firms.

Find market research firms in Massachusetts that do research online for greater speed

Some websites provide info on numerous market research firms that offer online research services. Such web-based services can prove a convenient alternative to in-person research methods, which are more time-consuming and often more costly. Some local and remote firms also provide online options along with their face-to-face services.

I recommend: Schlesinger Associates offers online focus groups and bulletin boards, both in the U.S. and internationally. GreenBook offers groups that include both market research MA provider agencies and non MA market research agency providers. These firms offer online focus groups, research panels and surveys. Power Decisions Group also provides online market research and consulting services.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  For the convenience of your market research, Massachusetts agencies are located in numerous cities statewide. You'll simply need to decide whether you want online or face-to-face market research services. Check out different companies, and don't hesitate to ask questions that can help you figure out which type of market research will better fit your needs, bearing in mind that many believe that online market research isn't as effective as face-to-face research.