market research

n. The systematic and objective study of marketing mix variables (e.g., price, promotion, product, and placement), or any research conducted by a marketing organization. Marketing research may be either applied (intended to solve specific marketing-related problems) or basic (intended to advance knowledge), conducted in the field or the laboratory. The research may be exploratory, such as focus groups, case studies, or experience surveys; descriptive, such as surveys or observational research; or causal, experimental research. Market research is conducted by people in many fields of study, including psychology, sociology, anthropology, communications, and history.

- PTV