Market and Consumer Research Analysis truly lived up to its name and my expectations. I currently perform research and analysis during my regular employment, but the research required for public relations is a different kind of “beast,” if I can be as bold to call it such.
What is this beast?
Public relations and marketing require predictive analysis to determine customer activities and responses. This is typical of most forms of analysis in business. The main difference I find is the significance of a like and share vice the unending tirades resulting from political decisions, as viewed through social media. Many indicators are subtle, but this is dependent upon scope of impact. There is a direct correlation between perceived impact and emotional investment.
Wait… you said “perceived impact,” didn’t you?
I did. You are correct. The media is full of bias because it is a means to sell additional programming and commercial slots. Sensational news captivates audiences, and political leaders sometimes get caught following false stories. The perceived impact is how a person believes something will impact themselves or someone they know. The true impact could be, and likely is, completely different than the standing belief, but that deals with the interpretation of the consumers watching, reading, or listening to the news. That leaves room for a lot of ambiguity.
What does any of this have to do with Market and Consumer Research Analysis?
Market and Consumer Research Analysis is part of an art form. The research is only a third of the story. Deciphering and coding results represents another third, but the true art is in figuring how to craft a story that is ethical which will manipulate the consumer to your whim. That is an art form.
Huh?!?!?!?!?!?!?
Think about it. You put together a puzzle, and then you redraw and recut all the lines in a new way if you do your job successfully. Marrying science and art is a challenge, but the rewards can be substantial if you learn to ask the right questions. I believe I have better insight for current and future projects. Time will tell.
What do you think of Market and Consumer Research Analysis being both science and art? Leave me a comment. Also, signup for my newsletter, and I will keep you updated on my new posts, music releases, and interviews. Cheers.