You've learned the blueprint for building customer personas, but here's the critical question: how do you gather the information necessary to actually build them?

This is where market research comes in - the systematic process of collecting customer and market information to make better business decisions.

Engagement Message

What's one customer insight you wish you knew but currently don't have data on?

Market research falls into two main categories: primary and secondary research. Think of it like cooking - sometimes you grow your own ingredients (primary), sometimes you buy them from the store (secondary).

Both approaches have their place in building customer understanding.

Engagement Message

Which do you expect to take more time—primary or secondary research—and why?

Primary research is data you collect yourself, directly from your customers or target market. This includes surveys, interviews, focus groups, and observing customer behavior.

You're gathering fresh information that doesn't exist anywhere else, tailored specifically to your questions and needs.

Engagement Message

Name one primary research method you've personally experienced as a customer.

Secondary research uses existing data that someone else has already collected. This includes industry reports, government statistics, competitor websites, and academic studies.

You're leveraging work others have done to find insights relevant to your business questions.

Engagement Message

What's one advantage of using data someone else has already collected?

Primary research gives you exactly what you need to know, but it's typically more expensive and time-consuming. You control the questions, timing, and methodology completely.

It's perfect when you need specific insights that don't exist elsewhere or want to understand your unique customer base.