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MGeneralUpdated 2 Nov 2026

Market research

Systematic gathering and analysis of information about markets and customers.

Definition

Market research is the systematic gathering and analysis of information about markets and customers. Founders reach for it when a vague conversation needs a shared, specific meaning. Name it clearly, then let the next decision — a hire, a price, a test, or a pass — follow from that meaning.

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In the room

How the word shows up in a real conversation.

In a Monday review, someone writes Market research on the board and restates it: “Systematic gathering and analysis of information about markets and customers.” The next move is a test, a cut, or a double-down — not another debate about the word.

Common mistake

Using Market research as a label instead of a fact. If you cannot point to the evidence — a number, a customer, or a written assumption — you are using the word as jargon.

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