A West Virginia market research company collects and analyzes data for companies about their potential customer base, competition and general market conditions in their area. These agencies save companies time and money by providing comprehensive research on the best way to advertise their products, examining the needs and wants of their customers and developing a marketing plan.

Companies that work with market research firms for specific projects will not need permanent marketing employees, which will save them money. Marketing firms can be contracted when a company needs help launching a product, expanding their market share or understanding the demographics of their clientele.

A firm that provides market research in WV will have the essential resources, trained staff and established connections to gather the data your company needs before starting a new marketing campaign. Here are a few tips to help you pick the right firm:

1. Request references from any West Virginia market research firms you are considering and find out if previous customers have been satisfied with their results.

2. Ask for samples from their portfolio, especially for projects similar to your own.

3. Get quotes for the WV market research you need to find out if it is within your budget.

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

Hire a firm that provides full service market research in West Virginia

A full service firm utilizes many research techniques to create a new marketing campaign for your company. They make suggestions about research methods that will benefit you and accommodate any specific requests you have.

I recommend: Partner with full service agencies like Kisner Communications or Bulldog Creative Services.

Locate market research firms in West Virginia that provide specialized services

Some marketing firms offer specialty services for smaller markets or distinctive industries. Find a WV market research agency that will help your business with online research studies, branding development and implementation, demographic research or any other information you seek.

I recommend: Lockney & Associates will help your company develop a recognizable brand. MindField Internet Panels works with the public through Internet surveys and panels.

Work with a WV market research consulting firm that obtains input from focus groups

A focus group is a collection of individuals who are asked to voice their opinions about a particular product, the packaging for new or redesigned goods, ad campaigns or anything else a for which company wishes to receive unbiased feedback. The products and services the group reviews may be kept anonymous to ensure the people who are participating do not know what company they are reviewing. The feedback that is derived from the group is input into databases and analyzed to demonstrate whether the public will be motivated to purchase what they have seen.

I recommend: Deal with a West Virginia market research company that puts together focus groups such as McMilion Research and Opinions Ltd.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Find out how quickly you can receive the results from a WV market research consultant to find out if it will be available before your deadline has passed.
• •  Meet with your potential representative from any market research firms in West Virginia prior to signing a contract and make sure they understand your goals and will work well with you.