Market research firms in Washington, DC aid your business in finding out how the public views you and how effective your advertising, products and pricing are in relation to the rest of the market. The firms gather, record and analyze data and information about your current and target customers, your competitors and the market in general.

Consider a DC market research agency to help you perfect your business plan, launch a new product or service, expand into new markets or adjust your packaging and pricing. These companies speak directly or indirectly to consumers using services such as interviews, surveys, focus groups and other tests designed for you business.

Hire marketing research firms in Washington, DC to:

1. Generate information about current and future trends. Use the marketing research Washington, DC firms give you to evaluate competitors and forge ahead in the market.

2. Find out how consumers see your product—whether they like it and use it—and others like it on the market.

3. See what consumers want from your product using marketing research. Washington, DC firms find out how your product looks among the rest of the market.

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

Find local Washington, DC market research firms

Look in your area for professional market research companies. Washington, DC is an unusual area, as many people work in DC, but live in neighboring communities. Find a firm that understands this and uses it to find out how your consumers spend, where they shop and where your product or service fits into their lives.

I recommend: Search locally to find companies such as QSA Research & Strategy. Browse online databases such as Blue Book, Green Book and Quirk's to conduct market research in DC communities.

Use primary research provided by market research firms in Washington, DC

Marketing research DC firms use primary research--focus groups, surveys, interviews and other specially designed tests--to get a grasp of your specific products or services. This research can be expensive but shows you exactly how the public sees your business and products. The firm you choose will enable you to utilize their results to maximize your advertising and promotional efforts.

I recommend: Choose market research firms in DC such as Eureka Facts and The Key Group to help you with surveys, focus groups and market analysis. Rockbridge looks at product pricing in the area and tells you how your product measures up--whether it's too cheap, too expensive or in line with other products in the market.

Ask DC marketing research firms about secondary research

Secondary research--general research done by someone else that you can use for your situation--is not specific to your company but is often cheaper since the firm has already conducted the market research. Washington, DC demographics and psychographics can help you decide which markets you want to go into.

I recommend: Use secondary research and other forms of product testing to evaluate your marketing plan. Olchak Market Research, Washington, DC-located, assists you with product placement and mystery shoppers. Metro Research Services gives you area information and Market Connections, Inc. tests your current ads to find out where you're excelling and lacking.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Consider doing some small research tasks on your own if you can't afford DC marketing research firms. DC businesses often exchange surveys for discounts or free samples for feedback. Take advantage of the ways you can research for free.