When should you conduct market research?
15 July 2026Many businesses associate market research with launching a new product or service, but in reality, it can provide value at every stage of a business' journey.
Many businesses associate market research with launching a new product or service, but in reality, it can provide value at every stage of a business' journey.
If you’ve not found yourself looking at home air conditioning over the last couple of weeks, you’re probably in the minority. With another spell of exceptionally hot weather, keeping cool has become a priority for many households.
Investing in market research can help businesses reduce risk, understand customers, validate ideas and make better strategic decisions. However, not all market research projects are the same, and choosing the right approach or the right research partner can make a significant difference to the quality of the insights you receive.
The government's decision to approve a social media ban for under-16s has reignited a familiar debate. Supporters see it as a necessary step towards protecting children online, while critics question how effective it will be in practice.
A recent survey reported by The Guardian has highlighted just how much attitudes towards higher education have changed over the past two decades.
Most startup founders already believe in their idea by the time they start thinking about research. Usually, the concept comes from a genuine frustration, an unmet need or a strong sense that existing products are not solving the problem properly.
It’s a common assumption that if a better product or service exists, customers will naturally move towards it. Yet in practice, that rarely happens as easily as expected.
Rising fuel costs and travel uncertainty are reshaping summer holiday behaviour. Rather than cancelling plans, consumers are becoming more cautious; prioritising flexibility, reliability, and control over aspiration, with a shift towards later bookings and lower-risk travel options.
Positive early feedback can create a false sense of demand. While interest signals potential, it often sits at the top of the funnel. Understanding what drives real action (and where hesitation emerges) is key to turning ideas into commercially viable opportunities.
Innovative products rarely fail because of the idea itself. More often, success depends on aligning the right audience, clear proposition, and effective pricing. Without this alignment, even strong concepts can struggle to convert interest into real demand.