ABSTRACT
Conducting research is necessary so that the information can be used to develop a successful business strategy and plan. Creative entrepreneurs may be eager to start writing a business plan. However, before doing so it is wise to take the time to research both competitors and potential customers. Research is a process of first collecting and then analyzing data in order to answer a question. Qualitative research methods include focus groups, interviews and observation. The data from quantitative research is in the form of numbers. The two types of research data that can be obtained by researchers are commonly called secondary and primary. Government data is useful in helping to decide pricing of a product and what consumer segment to target. There are trade publications and trade associations for almost every type of product from fashion to art material suppliers. The process of conducting either quantitative or qualitative research can be conducted by someone other than the creative entrepreneur.
