Project Submission
Timeline
Preliminary research
Week 1-2
Conduct quantitative research
Week 3-5
Conduct qualitative research
Week 6-9
Final report submission
Week 10
Name | Price | QTY | Subtotal |
---|---|---|---|
Item 1 Description of first item | $35.00 | 5 | $175.00 |
Item 2 Description of second item | $55.00 | $55.00 | |
Item 3 Description of third item | $200.00 | $200.00 |
Subtotal | $230.00 |
Discount | -$115.00 |
Tax | $23.00 |
Total | $138.00 |
Ethical considerations are very important in all types of research. Use this section to delineate the ways in which the research will abide by an ethical code in both methodology and practice. Among other possibilities, address factors such as confidentiality, data security, privacy, and consent of research participants.
This section can remain somewhat brief. Here, you can concede any potential or probable limitations of your research methods.
Although you have already addressed the likely outcomes of your findings previously in this research proposal, in this section you can expand upon the implications and potential benefits of your intended findings.
[Client.Company] agrees to pay [Sender.Company] 50% of the total project fee before beginning the project. The project will begin work once signatures are attained from both parties and 50% upfront payment is received by [Sender.Company] .
Once the project is completed, [Client.Company] is to send the remaining 50% payment amount due within 15 days after the final report is shared. Failure to send payment within the stipulated time period will result in a 10% late fee — this payment is to be made to the (Sender.Client) , unless the deadline for payment is agreed on a different date by both parties.
Any disputes arising from the agreement will be resolved based upon the laws and jurisdiction of [Sender.City] , [Sender.State] , [Sender.Country] .
Both parties agree that the contents and findings of the study will remain confidential, unless otherwise agreed upon. Confidential information is not information that is readily available to the public.
[Sender.Company] is not responsible for any damages arising from the case study unless there has been an error in the way the study was conducted.
[Client.Company] understands that there may be minor delays, not exceeding more than 2 weeks, depending on if the target audience of the study is quick (or not) to respond. Any delay and modifications in deadline will be communicated with [Client.Company] .
[Sender.Company] agrees to provide accurate and truthful information learned from the study. [Sender.Company] is not, however, responsible for the findings of the study. Nor is it liable for any damages arising out of the application of suggested solutions.
Please provide confirmation of agreeing to the terms of this agreement by signing the signature block below.
[Sender.FirstName] [Sender.LastName]
[Sender.Company]
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by George Kuhn
Posted at: 5/9/2023 12:30 PM
A market research proposal is the first and most critical step in your project or choosing a market research consultant .
It gives you all of the information you need on the process, approach, and most importantly: the cost 💸💸.
You can also tell a lot about a market research company from the interactions you have before signing on the dotted line.
In this article, our market research company shares everything you need to know about market research requests for proposals.
It will teach you what to look for, what the process looks like, and the key components of an RFP document.
Article Contents
What is a Market Research Proposal?
Looking to submit a request for a proposal to a market research company? Contact Drive Research by emailing [email protected] or completing an online contact form on our website.
A proposal for market research is a document that works as a template for the research team and client, determining the steps to take in proper order. What’s more, they ensure the project runs smoothly and follows a key set of steps.
Market research proposals typically include the following:
Another key detail to point out here is that proposals are especially important because there are so many different types of market research methods to choose from.
While the four elements listed above are essential in a proposal for any type of research project, their details will vary based on the type of research being conducted.
A research team that’s well-versed in multiple industries will be able to craft an effective research proposal that’s unique to their client.
Below, we’ll expand on the points mentioned above.
Free Resource: Download Our Free Market Research RFP Template
Market Research Proposal Components
A market research proposal includes a set amount of key components. Each section offers essential information and should always be reviewed to ensure you are selecting the best market research agency for the job.
Looking for assistance in creating a market research proposal to send to agencies? Here is your ultimate guide to writing a market research RFP .
Below are the key components of a market research proposal:
Proposal Component #1: Objectives
This is the general recap of key questions that need to be answered in the market research.
It should address your expectations, what you want to learn from the market research, and what you plan to do with the results.
In this section of the proposal, the market research company should communicate how well they listened and understood the key objectives of your project from the prospecting meetings.
This is an important component of a market research proposal.
It is important both sides have a clear understanding of what the general goals and objectives of the research are.
Your objectives will shape survey or interview questions, and guide the final results. Do not hesitate to discuss any comments or concerns when you receive the proposal.
💡 The Key Takeaway: As with any market research project, a proposal will contain clear project objectives. This includes project expectations and how the data will be used.
Proposal Component #2: Approach
In this section of the market research proposal, the firm should outline the approach.
This approach should set the table for the types of methodologies of choice and most importantly, why they are the best options for the client.
Here the proposal may talk about approaches to market research such as:
Whatever the methodology is, the firm should spend some time discussing the value of each methodology and why it was chosen over other options.
For instance, online surveys offer the best return on investment (ROI) for a client. This is because online surveys are cost-effective , offer a quick turnaround, and capture quality data.
This is part of the story we share for our market research case studies . All great market research companies have a patented process.
💡 The Key Takeaway: For this section of the proposal, the approach will detail what type of market research will be used and other relevant information.
Proposal Component #3: Design
Now that the approach is laid out, the market research company should get into the details here.
The design phase of the market research proposal outlines the structure of each of the market research instruments.
This component of a market research proposal may include:
This section should explain some of the questions the market research company is considering asking, how long the survey or interview will take, what populations the market research will be targeting, and so on.
For example, if the market research company is proposing focus groups, the proposal will discuss the location of the groups, honorariums, recruitment methods, and more.
This is the crux of the market research proposal. The detail is in the design and it's where the market research company can shine.
The design component is where they can show their expertise and experience. This is where the pretenders are separated from the contenders.
💡 The Key Takeaway: In this section of the proposal, further details about the chosen method of research are provided. This step is essential when it comes to giving clients peace of mind about their projects.
Proposal Component #4: Fieldwork
During the fieldwork section of the proposal, this is where your organization will read about the number of groups, the number of survey completes, or the number of interviews.
You may also learn about how the firm proposes cutting the audiences or creating quotas .
Here the market research firm should also share how the project will start with a soft-launch email survey before fully launching fieldwork.
Additionally, in this section of our market research proposals, we also share with our clients that they will receive a live data link that they can access 24/7 with a passcode.
This gives our clients up-to-the-second data when their project is active.
To give you a preview, here is an example client portal created for online surveys.
💡 The Key Takeaway: The fieldwork section covers how the feedback will be gathered for the client project. Additionally, this is a chance for the team to discuss how demographics will be handled.
Proposal Component #5: Reporting
The reporting component is another key section of the market research proposal. This is where your team will read about the analysis and reporting plans of the market research company.
It should give you a mental picture of how the report will be structured.
This would most likely include:
Depending on the complexity of the project, the market research firm should also touch on some advanced analytics such as TURF analysis , text analytics , regression , correlation , or any other non-traditional form of reporting.
Below is an example infographic you might receive from a market research company, like Drive Research.
Example Infographic of a Market Research Report
💡 The Key Takeaway: This section covers how the received data will be analyzed and reported. It covers how the data will be arranged and interpreted by the team.
Proposal Component #6: Timeline
In one of the final sections of the market research proposal , the market research firm should highlight the timeline.
This not only includes a total start-to-finish estimate in weeks (or months) but a breakdown of each section.
Our market research firm often finds Gantt charts work very well for these timelines. The breakdown here should include kickoff, set up, design, fieldwork, and reporting.
💡 The Key Takeaway: Including a timeline off provides additional peace of mind for clients. This section simply details the due dates for project steps.
Recommended Reading: How Long Does Market Research Take?
Proposal Component #7: Costs
Lastly, the market research project proposal must highlight the expenses. This total cost is often what our clients (and any human being) want to jump to first.
We typically either include this on the cover page or at least in the email sent to the client. The cost should give some details on how it came to be.
For instance, the cost of market research could be based on hourly rates and the time expected to complete each task.
The scope should also talk about the hard pass-through costs such as incentives or rentals of panels.
💡 The Key Takeaway: An authentic market research proposal will always include cost. This keeps both parties informed and aware of the best pricing strategies.
What A Proposal Tells You About a Market Research Company
Aside from project cost, there are a few other important factors in choosing a full-service market research supplier .
Here are a few things to consider when reviewing a market research proposal from agencies and firms.
How quickly do they turn it around?
Understanding the estimated project timeline showcases how fast the market research company can move. More importantly, it reflects how much of a priority your project is for them.
If they are taking a week or longer to produce a fairly straightforward and simple proposal, they may not be considering you as a priority client.
Speaking from experience, the research industry moves fast. A week is an eternity in business as far as our market research company is concerned.
How clean and professional does it look?
The layout and format of a market research proposal will give you some insight into what their reporting, infographics, and deliverables will look like.
A sloppy thrown together proposal is a sign of bad things to come. Remember, this should be the phase where a third-party market research firm is trying to win you over.
If the first document you receive from a vendor is not up to your standards, it is likely not the firm you'd like to move forward with.
How flexible is the market research company?
Are they willing to work with you on scope, process, and cost if your budget requires it?
If they show some flexibility and are willing to make adjustments as part of the proposal process, it is a sign they will be easy to work with throughout the coming weeks.
At our market research company , we like to act as an extension of your team. In the proposal phase, we try to do everything we can for your team to meet your goals.
How consultative is the market research partner?
Market research companies often get a bad rap for being laser-focused on charts, numbers, and analytics. They sometimes fail to see the bigger picture: How can clients use this data to improve everyday business operations?
While we can speak for other firms, we can certainly speak behind the mission of Drive Research.
Sure, we love statistics and data as much as the next analyst. However, every market research project includes a level of consultation to assure our clients are walking away with actionable insights.
Here are a few ways we add consultative elements to the market research process:
How responsive are they?
If you send an email to a prospective market research vendor asking them a question about the scope or price, it should not take days to get a response.
Think of it this way, the service is likely not going to get better once they close the project and have you as a client.
The best service you will get from any company is when they are trying to get you to sign the dotted line. Sad but very true.
For more context about choosing a market research company, watch this short 60-second video.
Final Thoughts
A market research proposal may seem simple enough.
And while this type of document isn’t difficult to construct, it contains many moving parts–which all depend on the needs of the client. This is why it’s crucial to have the proposal handled by a team of trustworthy experts!
Aside from containing the necessary information, an effective market research proposal will be handled by an equally effective market research team. Covering everything from key objectives to costs, a well-written proposal is the first step to a successful market research project.
Need a Market Research Proposal? Contact Drive Research
Drive Research is a full-service market research company. We provide both qualitative and quantitative research services to organizations across the world.
If you are interested in receiving a market research proposal from Drive Research, contact us today!
George Kuhn
George is the Owner & President of Drive Research. He has consulted for hundreds of regional, national, and global organizations over the past 15 years. He is a CX-certified VoC professional with a focus on innovation and new product management.
Learn more about George, here .
Categories: Market Research Analysis
Need help with your project? Get in touch with Drive Research.
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Proposal Template AI
Free proposal templates in word, powerpoint, pdf and more
The importance of a market research proposal template.
As a market researcher, I understand the importance of creating a comprehensive and well-organized market research proposal. This document serves as a roadmap for our research process , outlining the objectives, methodology, and timeline for our project. However, creating a proposal from scratch can be time-consuming and challenging. That’s where a market research proposal template comes in. This template provides a structured framework for developing a thorough and professional proposal , saving time and ensuring that all necessary components are included. In this article, we will explore the key elements of a market research proposal template and discuss why it is an essential tool for any successful market research project.
Executive summary.
The purpose of this section is to provide a brief overview of the market research proposal. It should include the objectives of the research, the methodology that will be used, and the expected outcomes .
Example: In this market research proposal, we aim to investigate the buying behavior of millennials in the automobile industry. We will utilize a combination of surveys, focus groups, and data analysis to understand the preferences and decision-making process of this demographic. The expected outcome is to provide actionable insights for automobile companies to effectively target and appeal to millennials.
My advice on: The executive summary is a crucial part of the market research proposal as it sets the tone for the rest of the document. It should be concise yet informative, capturing the essence of the research project .
This section outlines the specific goals and objectives of the market research. It should clearly define what the research aims to achieve and how it will contribute to the organization’s strategies.
Example: The objectives of this market research include: 1. To identify the key factors influencing millennials’ purchasing decisions in the automobile industry. 2. To understand the perception of various automobile brands among millennials. 3. To determine the most effective marketing channels to reach millennials.
My advice on: When outlining the objectives, it is important to be specific and measurable. This will provide a clear direction for the research and allow for meaningful conclusions to be drawn.
This section details the approach and methods that will be used to conduct the market research. It should include a description of the research design , data collection techniques, and data analysis methods .
Example: The methodology will involve a combination of quantitative and qualitative research. Surveys will be conducted to gather numerical data on purchasing preferences and behaviors, while focus groups will provide in-depth insights into millennials’ attitudes towards different automobile brands. Data analysis will include statistical techniques to identify trends and patterns.
My advice on: When describing the methodology, it is important to justify the choice of methods and demonstrate their suitability for the research objectives . This will help to establish the credibility of the research approach .
This section provides a detailed timeline for the market research project. It should outline the key milestones and deliverables, as well as the estimated timeframes for each stage of the research.
Example: – Research planning and design: 1 month – Survey administration: 2 weeks – Focus group discussions: 3 weeks – Data analysis and report writing : 1 month
My advice on: The timeline should be realistic and achievable, taking into account any potential obstacles or delays. It should also be well-structured to ensure that the research progresses smoothly.
This section outlines the estimated budget for the market research project. It should include a breakdown of costs for each aspect of the research, such as participant recruitment , data collection, and analysis.
Example: – Survey administration: $5,000 – Focus group discussions: $7,000 – Data analysis software : $3,000 – Research report writing: $2,000
My advice on: The budget should be carefully considered and realistic, taking into account all necessary expenses. It is important to justify the costs and demonstrate the value that the research will provide.
This section summarizes the key points of the market research proposal and reiterates the importance of the research in achieving the organization’s goals.
Example: The proposed market research will provide invaluable insights into the preferences and behaviors of millennials in the automobile industry. By understanding their decision-making process and perceptions of different brands, automobile companies will be able to tailor their marketing strategies and product offerings to better appeal to this demographic.
My advice on: The conclusion should leave a lasting impression and emphasize the significance of the research. It should reinforce the value of the proposed research in driving business growth and success.
By using these examples, individuals can gain a better understanding of how to structure and develop each section of a market research proposal. The detailed and in-depth writing provides a clear guide on what should be included in each part of the template, while the first-person advice offers practical tips on how to effectively approach each section. Ultimately, these examples can be used to improve the quality and impact of a market research proposal, ensuring that it is thorough, well-structured, and compelling.
Download Free Market Research Proposal Template PDF and Examples Download Free Market Research Proposal Template Word Document
Download Free Market Research Proposal Template Powerpoint
A market research proposal is a document that outlines a plan for conducting market research, including the objectives, methodology, and timeline for the research.
A market research proposal should include a clear statement of the research objectives , details of the methodology to be used, a timeline for completion, and a budget for the research project.
A market research proposal is important because it helps to clearly define the scope and objectives of the research, ensuring that all stakeholders are on the same page and committed to the research process.
The key components of a market research proposal include the research objectives , methodology, timeline, budget, and a plan for analyzing and reporting the research findings .
A market research proposal should be well-organized and written in a clear and professional manner. It should include all necessary details and be presented in a format that is easy to understand and review.
Some common challenges in creating a market research proposal include aligning the objectives of the research with the needs of stakeholders, defining a realistic budget and timeline , and selecting the most appropriate research methodology .
The development of a market research proposal should involve input from all key stakeholders , including management, marketing and sales teams, and any external research partners or agencies. This ensures that the proposal reflects the needs and objectives of all parties involved.
The key purpose of a market research proposal is to outline a plan for conducting research that will provide valuable insights into a specific market or target audience , ultimately helping to inform business decisions and strategies.
Entrepreneurs and companies need to get critical information about their industry or specific market landscape to help ensure their business becomes a success.
This is where market research plays a role. But to be effective, proper steps must be outlined through a market research proposal.
If you’re a business owner or a marketer, you must learn how to write a market research proposal correctly . So here’s a handy step-by-step guide on how to do just that. Plus, we’ll throw in a free template to help you get started.
Table of Contents
When drafting a market research proposal , you can adopt various styles depending on the industry or business. But to put forth a more organized proposal, it helps to adhere to proven structures and follow these steps.
It’s always wise to open with an overview to give the readers of the proposal a general idea of what the market research is all about, as well as set their expectations. If you don’t want to use the term overview, you can also go with an executive summary or an introduction.
You can do a simple overview consisting of one to three paragraphs. Or if the situation calls for it, you can also present your executive summary with supporting information that may include any or all of the following:
When writing a market research proposal, define the project’s goals as clearly as possible. You can begin with a larger, encompassing objective and then break it up with its corresponding parts.
If you are dealing with multiple goals, make sure to explain how each separate objective relates to or affects one another.
Remember that clearly defined goals will guide the execution of the market research project – from the budget to the types of surveys or questions you will use.
Market research can be accomplished in various ways, but there needs to be a clear plan for executing it.
Outline your methodology and approach to getting the information you need. As far as methods are concerned, you can choose from options like organizing focus groups, deploying online surveys, or holding interviews over the phone or face-to-face.
You should also consider if your approach is multi-faceted. Will the surveys be done once or through a series of batches? Will you follow up on the first wave of interviews with email surveys?
Never forget to include the rationale for choosing your methodology. Factors to remember include costs, logistics, and timeline.
Market research proposal creation would be incomplete without including the mechanics for analyzing and reporting the results.
You must present a concrete plan for how the market research data will be collected and safely stored.
Next on your list is to explain how the data will be analyzed. Of course, what comes after is the reporting part. It’s more than just presenting the facts. You should also include your interpretations and, more importantly, your recommendations.
Market research takes time and isn’t free. So, you’ll need to define your timeline and expected costs clearly.
It’s also important to tackle the terms and conditions of the market research project. The more transparent you are, the more you can prevent misunderstandings in the future.
When drafting a market research proposal, you can accomplish things faster using a reliable template.
Sign up now for a free account at Fill to get a market research proposal template. It’s just one of several templates that we offer for free.
Market Research Proposal
It’s not enough to know how to draft a market research proposal. You also have to be aware of common mistakes people commit when preparing these proposals.
Now that you know how to write a market research proposal, it’s time to put your learnings into practice immediately.
Create an account at Fill and grab a free market research proposal template today.
Andria is a seasoned content writer, specializing in document management solutions and HIPAA compliance, providing valuable insights for businesses and professionals alike.
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State of Proposals 2024
Distilling the data to reveal our top tips for doing more business by upping your proposal game.
Companies that conduct market research and analysis can use our sample marketing research proposal template as an example of how to write a market research proposal, and as a guide when preparing survey proposals, data collection proposals, or business research.
This template allows you to explain your methodology for gaining qualitative and quantitative research, and provides a section to break down your research timeline into phases. It also includes a statement of work section to clarify what the customer will receive from the research, along with a detailed contract
All of our templates are 100% customizable so you can edit the copy, design, images, and layout to suit your business, brand, and client project. Our online signature feature delivers 60% faster client approval and makes the proposal legally binding.
All accounts allow unlimited templates. | |||
Create and share templates, sections, and images that can be pulled into documents. | |||
Images can be uploaded directly, videos can be embedded from external sources like YouTube, Vidyard, and Wistia | |||
You can map your domain so prospects visit something like proposals.yourdomain.com and don't see "proposify" in the URL | |||
Basic | Team | Business | |
All plans allow you to get documents legally e-signed | |||
Allow prospects to alter the quantity or optional add-ons | |||
Capture information from prospects by adding form inputs to your documents. | |||
Basic | Team | Business | |
Get notified by email and see when prospects are viewing your document. | |||
Generate a PDF from any document that matches the digital version. | |||
Get a full exportable table of all your documents with filtering. | |||
Basic | Team | Business | |
Connect your Stripe account and get paid in full or partially when your proposal gets signed. | |||
Create your own fields you can use internally that get replaced in custom variables within a document. | |||
All integrations except for Salesforce. | |||
You can automatically remind prospects who haven't yet opened your document in daily intervals. | |||
Lock down what users can and can't do by role. Pages and individual page elements can be locked. | |||
Create conditions that if met will trigger an approval from a manager (by deal size and discount size). | |||
Use our managed package and optionally SSO so reps work right within Salesforce | |||
Our SSO works with identity providers like Salesforce, Okta, and Azure | |||
Great for multi-unit businesses like franchises. Enables businesses to have completely separate instances that admins can manage. | |||
Basic | Team | Business | |
Our team is here to provide their fabulous support Monday - Thursday 8 AM - 8 PM EST and on Fridays 8 AM - 4 PM EST. | |||
Sometimes the written word isn't enough and our team will hop on a call to show you how to accomplish something in Proposify. | |||
Your own dedicated CSM who will onboard you and meet with you periodically to ensure you're getting maximum value from Proposify. | |||
We'll design your custom template that is built with Proposify best-practices and train your team on your desired workflow. | |||
Our team of experts can perform advanced troubleshooting and even set up zaps and automations to get the job done. |
Do you want a completely editable market research proposal template that brought more than $133 million in sales to companies worldwide in 2023 alone? Add, delete, or change sections as you see fit, make it your own, and improve your market outreach fast and easy.
Looking for visually appealing and highly functional? You’ve got it. This template comes with a pre-built layout designed to help you create professional documents quickly and easily.
The first thing your client sees when your proposal shows up in their inbox is a nicely designed cover. As a business owner, you understand how hard it is to gain the client's attention, so the goal is to start the proposal with an attention-grabbing image.
You can change everything, from the text, logo, and background image to make it a better fit for your needs.
There is no better way to explain your market research plan to your potential clients than with our pre-written introduction section. It consists of a meeting summary, proposed research that includes everything from social media to focus groups, and a structured breakdown of your services. You just need to add a few client specifics and that's it.
Like everything else in this sample proposal, it's 100% editable - the colors, the text, images, layout - everything.
Explaining to the client the structure of each of the market research methodologies you are going to use can be difficult. You want to give enough detail about your data collection methods and how you generally conduct market research but not so much it seems overwhelming.
Fortunately, we created a plan of action already sectioned to fit the amount of information needed to design a perfect proposal. Just make a few adjustments to suit your exact process.
A client success story is a powerful tool in convincing your clients to close the deal. It gives you the perfect opportunity to show them that you understand their goals and objectives and have a way to make them come true. In this market research proposal template, we've set out an example case study.
All you need to do is replace our example with one of yours and use the structure we've used.
No matter if your pricing strategy includes charging hourly, monthly, or optional up-sell services, like special images and videos, you can do it all with this automatically calculated pricing table. The final steps are simple - just enter your numbers and a short description, and both your market research proposal and quotes are ready for your client's eyes.
Any business will eventually be tested in handling increased customer traffic. Lessen the strain of paperwork by choosing a digital signature over traditional mail. The 'Next steps' tab will allow you to explain your process after signing and offer a line for the customer to give their electronic consent.
Our digital signatures are legal and compliant. When your client signs, you can see their digital signature certificate in your Better Proposals account.
Whether you're just starting a company or you're a seasoned professional, Terms and Conditions will probably slip your mind when you're discussing some new market research projects. To ensure your business is still protected, we have added fully customizable T&Cs at the end of this template.
Getting paid - it's the hardest thing to do in business. The sooner and the easier you can get that money in your account, the better.
Using our integrations with Stripe, PayPal, and GoCardless, you can take a payment from your client the moment they sign your proposal.
Set up your logo, brand colors, and fonts once to have them automatically embedded in all your documents.
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Save your best work into the Content Library and use pre-built blocks to speed up your doc creation.
Leave embarrassing mistakes in the past. Use merge tags to automatically populate docs with the right information.
Give clients an onboarding experience they won’t forget. Collect extra info with forms, let them book calls, get paid, or redirect them to your website.
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Published on October 12, 2022 by Shona McCombes and Tegan George. Revised on November 21, 2023.
A research proposal describes what you will investigate, why it’s important, and how you will conduct your research.
The format of a research proposal varies between fields, but most proposals will contain at least these elements:
Literature review.
While the sections may vary, the overall objective is always the same. A research proposal serves as a blueprint and guide for your research plan, helping you get organized and feel confident in the path forward you choose to take.
Research proposal purpose, research proposal examples, research design and methods, contribution to knowledge, research schedule, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about research proposals.
Academics often have to write research proposals to get funding for their projects. As a student, you might have to write a research proposal as part of a grad school application , or prior to starting your thesis or dissertation .
In addition to helping you figure out what your research can look like, a proposal can also serve to demonstrate why your project is worth pursuing to a funder, educational institution, or supervisor.
Show your reader why your project is interesting, original, and important. | |
Demonstrate your comfort and familiarity with your field. Show that you understand the current state of research on your topic. | |
Make a case for your . Demonstrate that you have carefully thought about the data, tools, and procedures necessary to conduct your research. | |
Confirm that your project is feasible within the timeline of your program or funding deadline. |
The length of a research proposal can vary quite a bit. A bachelor’s or master’s thesis proposal can be just a few pages, while proposals for PhD dissertations or research funding are usually much longer and more detailed. Your supervisor can help you determine the best length for your work.
One trick to get started is to think of your proposal’s structure as a shorter version of your thesis or dissertation , only without the results , conclusion and discussion sections.
Download our research proposal template
Writing a research proposal can be quite challenging, but a good starting point could be to look at some examples. We’ve included a few for you below.
Like your dissertation or thesis, the proposal will usually have a title page that includes:
The first part of your proposal is the initial pitch for your project. Make sure it succinctly explains what you want to do and why.
Your introduction should:
To guide your introduction , include information about:
Professional editors proofread and edit your paper by focusing on:
See an example
As you get started, it’s important to demonstrate that you’re familiar with the most important research on your topic. A strong literature review shows your reader that your project has a solid foundation in existing knowledge or theory. It also shows that you’re not simply repeating what other people have already done or said, but rather using existing research as a jumping-off point for your own.
In this section, share exactly how your project will contribute to ongoing conversations in the field by:
Following the literature review, restate your main objectives . This brings the focus back to your own project. Next, your research design or methodology section will describe your overall approach, and the practical steps you will take to answer your research questions.
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To finish your proposal on a strong note, explore the potential implications of your research for your field. Emphasize again what you aim to contribute and why it matters.
For example, your results might have implications for:
Last but not least, your research proposal must include correct citations for every source you have used, compiled in a reference list . To create citations quickly and easily, you can use our free APA citation generator .
Some institutions or funders require a detailed timeline of the project, asking you to forecast what you will do at each stage and how long it may take. While not always required, be sure to check the requirements of your project.
Here’s an example schedule to help you get started. You can also download a template at the button below.
Download our research schedule template
Research phase | Objectives | Deadline |
---|---|---|
1. Background research and literature review | 20th January | |
2. Research design planning | and data analysis methods | 13th February |
3. Data collection and preparation | with selected participants and code interviews | 24th March |
4. Data analysis | of interview transcripts | 22nd April |
5. Writing | 17th June | |
6. Revision | final work | 28th July |
If you are applying for research funding, chances are you will have to include a detailed budget. This shows your estimates of how much each part of your project will cost.
Make sure to check what type of costs the funding body will agree to cover. For each item, include:
To determine your budget, think about:
If you want to know more about the research process , methodology , research bias , or statistics , make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples.
Methodology
Statistics
Research bias
Once you’ve decided on your research objectives , you need to explain them in your paper, at the end of your problem statement .
Keep your research objectives clear and concise, and use appropriate verbs to accurately convey the work that you will carry out for each one.
I will compare …
A research aim is a broad statement indicating the general purpose of your research project. It should appear in your introduction at the end of your problem statement , before your research objectives.
Research objectives are more specific than your research aim. They indicate the specific ways you’ll address the overarching aim.
A PhD, which is short for philosophiae doctor (doctor of philosophy in Latin), is the highest university degree that can be obtained. In a PhD, students spend 3–5 years writing a dissertation , which aims to make a significant, original contribution to current knowledge.
A PhD is intended to prepare students for a career as a researcher, whether that be in academia, the public sector, or the private sector.
A master’s is a 1- or 2-year graduate degree that can prepare you for a variety of careers.
All master’s involve graduate-level coursework. Some are research-intensive and intend to prepare students for further study in a PhD; these usually require their students to write a master’s thesis . Others focus on professional training for a specific career.
Critical thinking refers to the ability to evaluate information and to be aware of biases or assumptions, including your own.
Like information literacy , it involves evaluating arguments, identifying and solving problems in an objective and systematic way, and clearly communicating your ideas.
The best way to remember the difference between a research plan and a research proposal is that they have fundamentally different audiences. A research plan helps you, the researcher, organize your thoughts. On the other hand, a dissertation proposal or research proposal aims to convince others (e.g., a supervisor, a funding body, or a dissertation committee) that your research topic is relevant and worthy of being conducted.
If you want to cite this source, you can copy and paste the citation or click the “Cite this Scribbr article” button to automatically add the citation to our free Citation Generator.
McCombes, S. & George, T. (2023, November 21). How to Write a Research Proposal | Examples & Templates. Scribbr. Retrieved August 19, 2024, from https://www.scribbr.com/research-process/research-proposal/
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The current pandemic may have curbed our travel, but that doesn’t mean we don’t all still know the value of having good maps and a suggested itinerary. Indeed, a solid plan of action makes any endeavor — whether it be a fun-filled vacation, an educational goal, or a professional enterprise — more focused, less stressful, and, thus, more effective. It doesn’t matter if life interrupts our plans (“Hello, COVID-19!”); in fact, interruptions are a given, but we still know that good plans prepare us for whatever lies ahead. They help us to define our priorities and clarify our needs so that we can better manage our resources. The result: we are better prepared to handle uncertainties and more formidable and more productive in whatever we choose to do.
For businesses, good plans are based on good research. More than good products and services, good information sets profitable companies apart from their competition, allowing them to prepare for — and plan for — success. This is why market research proposals are so important. A market research proposal is a document a company uses to map out its future. It unites company stakeholders in joint discovery of information so that everyone knows who and what really matters. In short, a market research proposal outlines the specifics of an information-gathering project. This is how to write a winning one:
A market research proposal is sometimes called a “market research brief” because it's just that: brief. It should also be clearly written with no unusual acronyms or industry jargon and only the necessary points to underscore the overall research objective (as well as how it will be addressed) highlighted.
The beginning of the proposal should include a short overview of the company, including such details as its mission and vision statements; market performance history; industry facts, figures, and trends; competitor data points and any other past research findings that shed light on the issue(s) at hand and why further research is needed.
The research objective is the most important part of the proposal, as it clearly outlines the information a company needs, and, thus, defines the overall goal of the project. It’s basically the question a company wants to be answered and needs to be specific and measurable (but not necessarily quantitative) with the desired outcome.
Of course, a market research proposal should also include a section explaining how the information to address the research objective will be obtained. Details about data collection (including the definition of the target audience, sample selection criteria, and proposed methodology) need to be clarified (since specific demographic, technological, economic, political, and even environmental concerns inevitably impact research outcomes) and should be evident with reasons for their use thoroughly transparent.
Finally, a good market research proposal needs to include a list of expected outcomes. An estimation of budget concerns, as well as a timeline for specific research milestones and project completion, should be listed here, along with an overview of projected deliverables to be anticipated. This helps both company executives and researchers to remain focused and on point.
A winning market research proposal isn’t just the one that seals the deal on a research project. It’s the one that provides actionable insights for companies and researchers alike. Following a determined set of standards, a winning market research proposal has the potential to garner data that can be used to inform better business decisions. Our team at Research America has the expertise needed to craft winning market research proposals that yield meaningful results for all involved. Please contact us to learn more.
Capture clients' interest with this well-crafted Market Research Proposal Template – demonstrate research approach, expert knowledge, and potential results.
Secure more market research projects with our Market Research Proposal Template. Designed to showcase your research methodologies, expertise, and success stories, this visually engaging template demonstrates your capabilities and helps you win more business.
Capture the attention of potential clients by highlighting your unique approach to market research and the valuable insights you provide. Our Market Research Proposal Template is tailored to present the best of your research offerings, driving increased interest and bookings for your services.
A Market Research Proposal is a strategic document outlining the objectives, methodologies, timeline, and budget of a proposed research project. It's crucial in securing stakeholders' support by clearly communicating the project's value. Utilizing a proposal management system streamlines the creation and management of such proposals, ensuring efficiency, accuracy, and consistency in presenting the project's details and objectives to stakeholders.
Market research is vital for understanding target audiences and their preferences, uncovering new opportunities, and improving existing products or services.
Key elements in a proposal include clear research objectives, appropriate methodologies like surveys or interviews, a realistic timeline, and a well-planned budget covering all stages of the project. This essential document helps businesses efficiently conduct market research within their financial constraints.
A Market Research Proposal is crucial when introducing a research project to stakeholders. It enhances the likelihood of securing internal funding or client approval. This proposal outlines the research's objectives, methodologies, expected outcomes, timeline, and budget.
Market research, a critical part of business strategy, provides insights into customers, competitors, and market trends. Your proposal should be tailored to meet stakeholder needs, focusing on the potential benefits for the company or how it can help external stakeholders achieve their goals.
Qwilr's Market Research Proposal Template offers several benefits that enhance your proposal creation process:
Here's a quick video overview of how to get started with this template:
Using Qwilr's Market Research Proposal Template is easy. To begin, simply select the template from the Qwilr library and customize it to match your needs. Add your business information, project objectives, and timeline for completion. You can also add visuals such as graphs or images that will help illustrate the proposal's key points. Once you're finished, share, and track engagement with your team or external clients.
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How do you write a market research proposal.
When writing a market research proposal:
The components of a market research proposal include an overview of the project's objective, methods, timeline, and budget, as well as the target market and research methodology, a description of potential limitations, and a budget breakdown.
To create a market research proposal in Qwilr, select the Market Research Proposal Template and customize it to match your needs.
Add your business information, project objectives, and timeline for completion. You can also add visuals such as graphs or images that will help illustrate the proposal's key points.
Finally, share and track engagement with your team or clients.
To price a market research project, consider factors such as complexity, time, and manpower needed to carry out the research.
As a rule of thumb, pricing should be commensurate with the project's scope and level of effort.
It's also a good idea to evaluate the competition pricing to ensure you remain competitive without undercutting your work's value.
An effective market research proposal clearly outlines the objective of the project, the research methodology, and the budget.
Detailed graphics and visual aids can help illustrate key points and make the proposal easier to understand. Additionally, a clear timeline for completion and potential limitations should be addressed.
Finally, it should be presented in a professional and visually-appealing format that can be easily shared and tracked.
Why [sender company], 1. in-house research, 2. panel expertise, 3. premium databases, 4. global coverage, 5. data visualization, our research approach, primary research, our primary research services, secondary research, ip research, social media listening & analytics.
Market analysis, consumer research and insights, competitive intelligence, custom research.
1. payment terms, 2. limitation of liability, 3. termination, 4. governing law, acceptance and signature, free market research proposal templates, this proposal template encompasses every possible details necessary for a market research proposal..
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This template is designed to provide you with everything you need to put together an effective house cleaning proposal. It will help you create a flawless proposal with a balanced structure in just a few minutes. Leverage this template to create proposals that convert.
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Detailed Walkthrough + Free Proposal Template
If you’re getting started crafting your research proposal and are looking for a few examples of research proposals , you’ve come to the right place.
In this video, we walk you through two successful (approved) research proposals , one for a Master’s-level project, and one for a PhD-level dissertation. We also start off by unpacking our free research proposal template and discussing the four core sections of a research proposal, so that you have a clear understanding of the basics before diving into the actual proposals.
If you’re working on a research proposal for a dissertation or thesis, you may also find the following useful:
PS – If you’re working on a dissertation, be sure to also check out our collection of dissertation and thesis examples here .
Research proposal example: frequently asked questions, are the sample proposals real.
Yes. The proposals are real and were approved by the respective universities.
As we discuss in the video, every research proposal will be slightly different, depending on the university’s unique requirements, as well as the nature of the research itself. Therefore, you’ll need to tailor your research proposal to suit your specific context.
You can learn more about the basics of writing a research proposal here .
You can access our free proposal template here .
Yes. There is no cost for the proposal template and you are free to use it as a foundation for your research proposal.
For self-directed learners, our Research Proposal Bootcamp is a great starting point.
For students that want hands-on guidance, our private coaching service is recommended.
This post is an extract from our bestselling short course, Research Proposal Bootcamp . If you want to work smart, you don't want to miss this .
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Written by: Raja Mandal
So you have a groundbreaking research idea you've spent months or even years developing, and now you're ready to take the next step.
How do you get funding for your research, and how should you approach potential funders? The answer is to create a convincing research proposal.
Unfortunately, most research proposals often get rejected. According to the European Research Council, the success rate for repeat proposal applications was only 14.8% in 2023 .
Pitching a novel research concept isn’t enough. To increase your chances of securing funding, your research proposal must check the right boxes in terms of clarity, feasibility, aesthetic appeal and other factors.
If you’re looking for inspiration to create a persuasive and feasible proposal, you’re in the right place. In this article, we have compiled a list of research proposal examples to help you create yours.
These examples will help you understand how to organize your proposal, what information to include and how to present it in a way that encourages others to support your project.
Let's dive in!
What is a research proposal, what to include in a research proposal, 8 research proposal examples & templates, research proposal faqs.
A research proposal is a structured document that outlines the core idea of your research, the methods you intend to use, the required resources and the expected results.
Think of it as a sales pitch for your research. It answers some big questions: What are you planning to explore? Why is it important to conduct the research? What are your research objectives and the methods you’ll use to achieve them? What are the potential outcomes or contributions of this research to the field?
A research proposal serves two primary purposes. First, it convinces funding bodies or academic committees to support your research project expected to bring new ideas and insights. Second, it provides a roadmap for your research journey, helping you stay focused, organized and on track.
Now, we'll discuss what to include in a research proposal. You'll learn about the important parts of a research proposal template and how they help present your research idea clearly.
Here’s an infographic that you can use to understand the elements of a research proposal quickly.
Start your research proposal with a title page that clearly states your research. The title page is like a book cover, giving the first impression of your project. Therefore, you must ensure the design is engaging enough to attract your audience at first glance.
Include the following details on your title page:
After the title page comes the abstract and the table of contents.
The abstract is a concise summary of your project that briefly outlines your research question, the reasons behind the study and the methods you intend to use. It is a quick way for readers to understand your proposal without reading the entire document.
The table of contents is a detailed list of the sections and subsections in your proposal, with page numbers. It helps readers navigate through your document and quickly locate different parts they're interested in.
The introduction of your research proposal sets the tone for the rest of the document. It should grab the reader's attention and make them want to learn more. It's your chance to make a strong case for why your research is worth investigating and how it can fill a gap in current knowledge or solve a specific problem.
Make sure that your introduction covers the following:
A literature review is a list of the scholarly works you used to conduct your research. It helps you demonstrate your current knowledge about the topic.
Here's how this part works:
This section outlines your plan for answering your research question. It explains how you intend to gather and analyze information, providing a clear roadmap of the investigation process.
Here are the key components:
Describe the entire group you're interested in (the population). This could be all teachers in a specific state or all social media platform users. After that, you will need to explain how you will choose a smaller group, known as a sample, to study directly. This sample should be selected to accurately represent the larger population you are interested in studying.
To choose the right sampling method, you need to assess your population properly. For instance, to obtain general insights, you can use random sampling to select individuals without bias. If the population consists of different categories, such as professionals and students, you can use stratified sampling to ensure that each category is represented in the sample.
Other popular sampling methods include systematic, convenience, purposive, cluster, and probability sampling techniques.
There are three main approaches for the research: qualitative (focusing on experiences and themes), quantitative (using numbers and statistics), or mixed methods (combining both). Your choice will depend on your research question and the kind of data you need.
This section details the specific methods you'll use to gather information. Will you distribute surveys online or in person? Conduct interviews? Perhaps you'll use existing data sets. Here, you'll also explain how you'll ensure the data collection process is reliable and ethical.
Once you have collected your data, the next step is to analyze it to obtain meaningful insights. The method you choose depends on the available data type.
If you have quantitative data, you can employ statistical tests to analyze it. And if you're dealing with qualitative data, coding techniques can help you spot patterns and themes in your collected data.
In this section, you need to explain how your research will contribute to the existing knowledge in your field. You should describe whether your study will fill a knowledge gap, challenge conventional ideas or beliefs or offer a fresh perspective on a topic.
Clearly outline how your work will advance your field of study and why this new knowledge is essential.
Create a timeline with important milestones, such as finishing your literature review, completing data collection and finalizing your analysis.
This shows that you've carefully considered the scope of your project and can manage your time effectively. Furthermore, account for possible delays and be prepared to adapt your schedule accordingly.
To create this timeline, consider using a visual tool like a Gantt chart or a simple spreadsheet. These tools will help you organize individual tasks, assign deadlines, and visualize the project's overall progress.
Choose a Gantt chart template from Visme's library and customize it to create your timeline quickly. Here's an example template:
The budget section is your opportunity to show them that you've carefully considered all necessary expenses and that your funding request is justified.
Here's how you can approach this part:
Using these research proposal examples and templates, you can create a winning proposal in no time. You will find templates for various topics and customize every aspect of them to make them your own.
Visme’s drag-and-drop editor, advanced features and a vast library of templates help organizations and individuals worldwide create engaging documents.
Here’s what a research student who uses Visme to create award-winning presentations has to say about the tool:
Research Student
Now, let’s dive into the research proposal examples.
This research proposal presentation template is a powerful tool for presenting your research plan to stakeholders. The slides include specific sections to help you outline your research, including the research background, questions, objectives, methodology and expected results.
The slides create a coherent narrative, highlighting the importance and significance of your research. Overall, the template has a calming and professional blue color scheme with text that enables your audience to grasp the key points.
If you need help creating your presentation slides in a fraction of the time, check out Visme's AI presentation maker . Enter your requirements using text prompts, and the AI tool will generate a complete presentation with engaging visuals, text and clear structure. You can further customize the template completely to your needs.
Sales research gives you a deeper understanding of their target audience. It also helps you identify gaps in the market and develop effective sales strategies that drive revenue growth. With this research proposal template, you can secure funding for your next research project.
It features a sleek and professional grayscale color palette with a classic and modern vibe. The high-quality images in the template are strategically placed to reinforce the message without overwhelming the reader. Furthermore, the template includes a vertical bar graph that effectively represents budget allocations, enabling the reader to quickly grasp the information.
Use Visme's interactive elements and animations to add a dynamic layer to your research proposals. You can animate any object and add pop-ups or link pages for a more immersive experience. Use these functionalities to highlight key findings, demonstrate trends or guide readers through your proposal, making the content engaging and interactive.
This proposal template is a great tool for securing funding for any type of research project. It begins with a captivating title page that grabs attention. The beautiful design elements and vector icons enhance the aesthetic and aid visual communication.
This template revolves around how a specific user group adopts cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum. The goal is to assess awareness, gauge interest and understand key factors affecting cryptocurrency adoption.
The project methodology includes survey design, data collection, and market research. The expected impact is to enhance customer engagement and position the company as a customer-centric brand.
Do you need additional help crafting the perfect text for your proposal? Visme's AI writer can quickly generate content outlines, summaries and even entire sections. Just explain your requirements to the tool using a text prompt, and the tool will generate it for you.
Creating a product that delights users begins with detailed product research. With this modern proposal template, you can secure buy-in and funding for your next research.
It starts with a background that explains why the research is important. Next, it highlights what the research is set to achieve, how the research will be conducted, how much it will cost, the timeline and the expected outcomes. With a striking color scheme combining black, yellow, and gray, the template grabs attention and maintains it until the last page.
What we love about this template is the smart use of visuals. You'll find a flowchart explaining the methodology, a bar graph for the budget, and a timeline for the project. But that’s just the tip of the iceberg regarding the visual elements you’ll find in Visme.
Visme offers data visualization tools with 30+ data widgets, such as radial gauges, population arrays, progress bars and more. These tools can help you turn complex data into engaging visuals for your research proposal or any other document.
For larger data sets, you can choose from 20+ types of charts and graphs , including bar graphs , bubble charts , Venn diagrams and more.
If you’re a tech researcher, we’ve got the perfect template for you. This research proposal example is about predictive analytics in e-commerce. However, you can customize it for any other type of research proposal.
It highlights the project's objectives, including the effectiveness of predictive analysis, the impact of product recommendations and supply chain optimization. The methods proposed for achieving these objectives involve A/B testing and data analysis, a comprehensive budget and a 12-month timeline for clear project planning.
The title page has a unique triptych-style layout that immediately catches the reader's attention. It has plenty of white space that enhances readability, allowing your audience to focus on the critical points.
Submitting to different funding agencies? You don’t have to manually make changes to your document. Visme's dynamic fields can help save time and eliminate repetitive data entry.
Create custom fields like project names, addresses, contact information and more. Any changes made to these fields will automatically populate throughout the document.
Artificial intelligence (AI) is taking the world by storm and the marketing niche isn’t left out. With this eye-catching template, you can attract attention to your proposed marketing research project for an AI-driven platform.
The main goal of the research is to evaluate the platform's feasibility and marketing potential. To achieve this goal, the scope of work includes a comprehensive analysis of the market and competitors and pilot testing. The proposal also contains a budget overview that clearly outlines the allocation of funds, ensuring a well-planned and transparent approach.
Using Visme's Brand Design Tool , you can easily customize this template to suit your branding with just one click. Simply enter your URL into the brand wizard, and the tool will automatically extract your company logo, brand colors, and brand fonts . Once saved, you or your team members can apply the branding elements to any document. It's that simple!
The environmental research proposal example focuses on carbon emissions, identifies their contributing factors, and suggests sustainable practices to address them. It uses an appropriate sample size and data collection techniques to gather and evaluate data and provide sustainable recommendations to reduce industrial carbon footprints and waste.
From a design standpoint, the green and white color combination matches the theme of nature and environmental friendliness. In addition to its aesthetic appeal, the proposal includes relevant images that support ecological advocacy, making it informative and visually aligned with its purpose.
A key feature of this template is its detailed breakdown of the project's timeline. It uses a Gantt chart to clearly present stages, milestones and deadlines.
Collaborate with your team members to customize these research proposal templates using Visme’s collaborative design features . These features allow you to leave feedback, draw annotations and even make live edits. Invite your teammates via email or a shareable link and allow them to work together on projects.
This research proposal template is a total game-changer - you can use it for any research proposal and customize it however you want. It features a modern and refreshing color scheme that immediately makes it stand out, providing a contemporary look that can adapt to any project's needs.
The template's layout is thoughtfully designed with primary fields that users can easily personalize by changing text, adjusting colors, or swapping images. No matter the research topic, you can tailor the template to fit your specific needs.
Once you're done customizing your research proposal template on Visme, you can download, share and publish it in different ways. For offline usage, you may download the proposal in PDF, PNG, or JPG format. To share it online, you can use a private or public link or generate a code snippet that you can embed anywhere on the web.
Want to create other types of proposals? Here are 29 proposal templates that you can easily customize in Visme.
Follow these steps to write a solid research proposal:
If you want to learn more about creating an expert research proposal , we highly recommend checking out our in-depth guide.
Research proposals can range from 1,000 to 5,000 words. For smaller projects or when specific requirements aren't provided, aim for a concise and informative proposal that effectively outlines your research plan.
However, the ideal length depends on these factors:
The time it takes to write a research proposal depends on a few factors:
Set aside several weeks to a couple of months for researching, writing, and revising your proposal. Start early to avoid stress and produce your best work.
There are several factors that can make a research proposal weak. Here are some of the most common errors that you should avoid while preparing your research proposal:
Writing a compelling research proposal takes effort, but with the right tools, the process becomes a breeze. Use the research proposal examples and templates in this article as a launching point to write your own proposal.
The best part? Visme provides easy-to-use tools with a vast collection of customizable templates, design elements and powerful features.
Whether you're a seasoned researcher or a student, Visme has the resources to help you create visually appealing and well-structured research proposals. In addition to research proposals, Visme helps you create many other document types, such as presentations , infographics , reports and more.
Ready to create your own research proposal? Check out Visme's proposal maker and start crafting professional and engaging proposals in minutes!
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Raja Antony Mandal is a Content Writer at Visme. He can quickly adapt to different writing styles, possess strong research skills, and know SEO fundamentals. Raja wants to share valuable information with his audience by telling captivating stories in his articles. He wants to travel and party a lot on the weekends, but his guitar, drum set, and volleyball court don’t let him.
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Blog Business 5 Marketing Proposal Examples to Elevate your Business
Written by: Tobi Ojenike Aug 10, 2023
Marketing proposals have become an essential tool for success in today’s competitive business environment. As a business, there are various marketing proposal examples that you can look at, learn from and use to build yours.
Creating persuasive marketing proposals goes beyond a sales pitch. They show you understand the client’s goals and can deliver results.
But writing them can be tricky! You need to stand out, be relevant and stay professional. Trust me, I’ve been there – and my secret weapon? Venngage’s marketing proposal templates ! They take the guesswork out of the process, so you can focus on crafting a proposal that screams “we’re the perfect team for you!”
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What should a marketing proposal include, what are the common mistakes to avoid in a marketing proposal, marketing proposal examples faqs, how to create a marketing proposal with venngage in 6 steps, a well thought out, well-designed marketing proposal should be:.
A carefully considered and well-designed project proposal explains your strategy, solutions and how they meet the client’s goals (basically, everything you need to win them over). A winning marketing proposal should be:
Now that you have an understanding of what a marketing proposal is and what it should have, let us dive into the different examples of marketing proposals.
Want to write winning marketing proposals? See how it’s done in the examples below that are packed with creative tactics to land your next client.
A digital marketing proposal is a strategic, in-depth document that lays out a thorough strategy to improve an organization’s online presence, engage its intended target market and spur commercial growth.
Using SEO services and methods such as search engine optimization (SEO), content marketing, social media management, pay-per-click (PPC) advertising, email campaigns and website user experience improvements, this kind of proposal serves as a marketing road map to demonstrate the marketer’s skills.
It emphasizes quantifiable goals, financial allotment, a schedule and key performance indicators (KPIs) to assess the effectiveness of the suggested digital marketing campaign.
For example, this proposal attempts to capture potential clients and forge fruitful collaborations by putting a strong emphasis on customized solutions. This marketing proposal example is great for small businesses.
Planning an offline marketing event instead? These event proposal templates might come in handy.
A social media campaign proposal is a compelling document that is skillfully written and lays out a thorough strategy for utilizing social media platforms to accomplish particular marketing goals.
A social media campaign proposal often includes strategies, content suggestions and advertising techniques. The proposal demonstrates the marketer’s talent for creating effective social media campaigns with an emphasis on raising brand awareness, increasing website traffic and encouraging meaningful interactions.
This proposal intends to attract potential clients and win their support with data-driven insights and quantifiable KPIs. Here are some examples of a social media campaign proposal that you could use:
Pitching for your next brand management client? Craft winning proposals with our brand management proposal templates . They easily showcase your understanding, strategies and the impact you’ll deliver.
A website design proposal is a carefully produced document that outlines a detailed strategy for developing or redesigning a website in line with the client’s brand identity and corporate goals.
This proposal demonstrates the web designer’s proficiency in technical implementation, visual design and user experience (UX) to produce a smooth and visually appealing online platform. It provides details on the project’s scope, schedule, deliverables and budget as well as insights into the design process and overall strategy.
Take a look at our carefully curated template as a creative compass:
A strong graphic design proposal highlights the value the designer brings to the client’s business while showcasing the designer’s expertise and creativity. You can also consider showcasing a portfolio of relevant past work and testimonials to build trust and confidence. Envision the stunning graphics you can create by taking a cue from this template:
An influencer marketing proposal is a document created by marketing agencies to pitch collaboration opportunities to brands or businesses. This proposal outlines the campaign’s goals, target market, proposed influencers, content suggestions and anticipated results.
The proposal aims to demonstrate the influencer’s suitability for promoting the brand’s products or services and outlines the terms of the partnership, such as compensation, timeline and key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure the campaign’s success.
The goal of the influencer marketing proposal is to persuade potential customers of the efficiency of influencer collaborations in increasing brand visibility and fostering engagement with their target audience.
With the help of our hand-picked collection of engaging influencer design proposal examples, you are off to a great start.
Ready to tackle more projects? Dive into our project proposal template library ! Find pre-built templates to jumpstart your next winning proposal.
Here’s a general outline of what a marketing proposal should include:
This is a brief of the main aspects of the plan. It highlights the information contained in the proposal and gives a quick look into some of the strategies, the complexities of the schedule, and the objectives that will indicate the project’s advancement. This summary provides your clients an understanding of what to expect from you and your team.
The aims and objectives of the marketing campaign or project should be stated in clear terms. To show that you are aware of the client’s demands, align these goals with their company objectives. You should also understand that not clearly stating the objectives could lead to confusion and easily make tracking the progress of the project quite difficult.
Every effective marketing proposition is built around the idea of “intended outcomes.” These results are more than just objectives; they stand for the transformational changes that your client’s business will experience as a result of your proposed plans and activities. In this important section of the proposal, you should delve into the anticipated future and the advantages of your partnership for the development and success of your brand.
Analyze the target audience of your intended clients to demonstrate your knowledge of this demographic. To show the applicability of your marketing strategy, include details on their demographics, behavior and preferences.
Here, you gather knowledge of consumer behavior, tastes, market trends, and the market environment. These findings are then used to generate marketing strategies and plans. Marketing research provides the data and insights needed to make informed decisions within your marketing plan .
Describe a well-planned marketing strategy that combines online and offline approaches. Describe the thinking behind each tactic and how they complement one another to produce the intended outcomes.
Outline the key performance indicators (KPIs) that will be used to gauge the marketing campaign’s effectiveness. Display your plan for collecting data, analyzing it and using it to inform decisions.
Give a thorough breakdown of the marketing campaign’s necessary budget as well as the estimated timetable for its completion. Building client trust through transparency in costs and delivery dates is beneficial.
This provides information on the qualifications and relevant experience of the marketing team or agency. It also highlights their strengths and weaknesses, previous achievements, their position in the company and the part they will play in the execution of the intended project.
Include pertinent references, case studies or illustrations of prior successful projects to highlight your experience and track record.
Invite the client to take the following steps, such as setting up a meeting or signing the agreement, by concluding the proposal with a clear call to action. Specify any terms, conditions or contractual arrangements related to the partnership.
An effective marketing proposal involves thorough planning and attention to detail. Here are some common mistakes to avoid in order to make sure your proposal stands out and stays clear of potential pitfalls:
Lack of individualization: Using a generic or templated proposal without adjusting it to the client’s unique needs and objectives can come across as careless and disconnected. Personalize your proposal to show that you are aware of the client’s problems and how your proposed solutions will solve them.
Uncertainty in objectives: Failure to establish precise, quantifiable objectives may cause uncertainty and a lack of concentration. Make sure your proposal contains clear objectives that the client can comprehend and assess.
Heavy focus on characteristics: If you place too much attention on the characteristics of your services rather than the advantages and results for the client, your proposal may not be as appealing. Clients are interested in how your methods will address their issues and produce outcomes.
Ignoring the target audience : If you don’t clearly define how your tactics will appeal to the client’s target audience, your proposal’s relevance and impact will suffer.
Insufficient research: Making recommendations without completing in-depth market research and data analysis can make your proposal seem unreliable. Based on sound research and insights, develop your strategies.
Uncertain time frame : Clients may be unsure of the project’s duration and scope if there isn’t a clear timeframe for the intended activities. The timetable and milestones should be clearly stated.
Neglecting proofreading: is important since submitting a proposal that contains grammatical, typographical, or formatting issues tarnishes your professionalism and credibility. Always double-check your writing before submitting.
While you can use marketing proposal examples as a reference and source of inspiration, it is essential to customize them to suit your specific business needs, goals, and target audience. A one-size-fits-all approach may not effectively address your unique requirements, so tailoring the proposal will ensure it aligns with your company’s objectives and maximizes its potential for success.
The complexity of the project and the client’s particular requirements can affect the length of a marketing proposal. However, it’s typically advised to keep the proposal brief and concentrated. Without including any additional attachments or supporting documents, aim for a length of 5–10 pages.
Consider customizing your marketing proposal to the client’s particular requirements and objectives, and make it abundantly obvious how your marketing methods will alleviate the client’s problems and produce results. Use a marketing proposal template with charts, graphs and infographics to add visual appeal to the proposal and to demonstrate the knowledge and experience of your team in the field. Finally, present your proposal in a polished and visually appealing manner. Include case studies or testimonials from prior successful marketing efforts.
Your marketing proposal should be presented in a polished, well-organized and visually appealing manner. To organize the material, think about utilizing headings and subheadings. Also, make sure to utilize a unified font and color design. Include visual components in the proposal, such as pictures, graphs and graphics to make it more interesting.
In the context of marketing strategy, a marketing plan and a marketing proposal serve different functions. A marketing plan is a thorough internal strategy document that defines a company’s overall marketing strategy over a long period of time. A marketing proposal, on the other hand, is a client-focused document that gives a detailed plan and strategy for a specific project or campaign in order to secure a client’s business. As a business, you can create a marketing plan with strategies that will be covered more in depth in the business proposals that you make.
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Before conducting market research, you will need to create a market research proposal that will include a brief overview of the study to be undertaken. Its purpose is to seek approval from the readers, such as the business leaders, to proceed, which makes it very crucial. Thus, you will need a very persuasive proposal that will focus on what they are expecting. However, you don’t have to worry! We have prepared a list of marketing research proposal templates and examples below, which you can use as your guide in creating a winning proposal.
1. market research proposal template.
Size: A4 & US Letter
As a researcher, you should know that in every three people in the world, one uses social media . With that said, 80% of the users on Instagram follow business profiles. Thus, if you are aiming to get more questionnaire correspondents, you should consider using online polls for specific questions concerning marketing to social media platforms. Get started and create your market research proposal with our easily editable Market Research Proposal Template .
One of the factors that you have to consider when creating a market research proposal is the cost of conducting the entire study. Business leaders may want to know the estimated budget required to complete the research. It will help them decide if the survey is worth pursuing. That is why it is necessary to include it in your proposal. With our Market Research Proposal Template, you can create a clear research grant budget that you can include in your project.
Size: A4, US
When writing a market research proposal , you should state the purpose of your study. For example, the reason you are conducting research is due to the dropping sales of the business you are serving. The purpose of the study may be to determine the cause of low sales and to find ways to increase the company’s sales. With that said, you may try out the Marketing Research Proposal Template (shown above) that you can use to create your market research proposal. This template comes with a masterfully designed layout and contents which you can fully customize to create a project with a precise purpose.
The proceeds of the global market research industry have been increasing year by year since 2009, where it experienced a slight plunge. Thus, if you are running a market research business, your company has the chance to grow big. Don’t miss the opportunity of your company’s chance of prosperity. Create a market research proposal for your prospected clients with our Market Research Proposal Template . You can download this template in all file formats, so it will be easy for you to customize its contents.
Did you know that the 2018 business-to-business( BToB ) e-commerce sales exceeded the $954 billion forecast for the year? The total BToB e-commerce sales in the US reached up to $9 trillion. It is estimated to increase and reach up to 17% by 2023. Take the opportunity of increasing your company’s revenue by using this downloadable example as your guide on creating a winning research proposal for your possible clients.
Size: 340 KB
Many assumed that advertising through new media channels such as the internet is targeting only young audiences. This research focuses on proving the effectiveness of new media advertising to young readers. If you are planning to conduct a similar study or related to this subject, you may use this document to serve as your guide. You can download this 22-page document in PDF format.
Size: 476 KB
This marketing research proposal example tackles obtaining new sources of income and coming up with approaches to increase the product sales of an estate garden with their existing sources. This sample includes the necessary information that you can use as a guide in making your proposal more appealing to your clients. You can download this 27-page document in PDF file format and customize it according to your business needs.
Size: 387 KB
This 5-page document includes an outline of a marketing research proposal . It also contains instructions and guidelines on how to write each part of the project, which can be enough to keep you guided until the end part of your proposal. It includes relevant links for more clarification about certain parts of the proposition. This file will serve your needs if you are in college and still learning on how to create a market research proposal.
Not all popular social media are reigning in terms of advertisement. There may be media channels that are booming in terms of the number of viewers/users. However, there are a few more factors to consider for a company to list his product in an advertising firm. This marketing research proposal example examines how to make a large social media platform’s advertising more efficient. Download this file to learn more about this study on online marketing.
Size: 90 KB
As a businessman, you should be knowledgeable enough before you place your money into any diversified investment . If you already have a business, you may want to do more research about your product and gain an advantage in marketing. The Sample Marketing Research Proposal (shown above) discusses the uses of olive oil in general, the applications of existing products, and the most reliable ways to promote their products. If you are planning to create a proposal with a similar problem, download this file to get started.
Size: 10 KB
The last example that we included in our list is a proposal for market research for an association. The study’s goal is to know the educational needs of the members and nonmembers of the association. If you are planning to research about a similar subject, you may want to check this sample out to get started in your research. You can download this file in PDF format for free. Try it now!
Text prompt
Generate a proposal for a new school recycling program
Compose a proposal for a school field trip to a science museum.
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The basis for fruitful marketing campaigns, product development, and strategic choice-making is a well-executed marketing research proposal. But creating a thorough and compelling research proposal can be daunting for anyone new to the area. Access to pre-made templates and examples is invaluable in this situation.
To speed up your research process, we will discuss the significance of marketing research proposals in this article and give you a selection of basic templates and sample proposals. These templates will work as helpful manuals to help you build your proposals, specify research objectives, sketch out methodology, and effectively communicate findings, whether you're a marketing expert, business owner, or student.
Don't worry. We also have research budget templates depending on project deliverables and milestones.
Each template in our collection is curated to address various research scenarios, such as market analysis, consumer behavior studies, competitor analysis, and brand perception research. By leveraging these templates, you will gain a solid understanding of the critical components required in a research proposal, such as executive summaries, research objectives, methodology descriptions, sample selection, data analysis techniques, and project timelines .
Moreover, the accompanying sample proposals provide real-world examples of how these templates can be customized and tailored to specific research projects. These samples offer insights into the language, formatting, and structure employed in successful research proposals, giving you a head start in crafting impactful documents.
Whether you're embarking on an academic research project or conducting market research for your business, our comprehensive collection of research proposal presentation templates and samples will equip you with the tools to create compelling proposals that yield valuable insights and drive informed decision-making.
One-page service marketing research proposal ppt template.
In today's fast-paced business environment, time is of the essence when it comes to delivering impactful marketing research proposals. We are pleased to present this ready to use PowerPoint template to help you communicate your research proposal in a concise, understandable, and engaging way. With this template, you can save time while ensuring your audience understands what you're saying.
It is a premium PowerPoint template that simplifies collecting information about market size and provides you with a structured framework for presenting your research objectives. It includes various sections that allow you to showcase your company's overview, working area, proposal budget, terms and conditions, proposal details , required client actions, deliverables, timelines, and critical milestones achieved thus far.
What sets this template apart is its appealing design consisting of professional hues that perfectly blend with the text of the template.
Whether you're a marketing professional, business owner, or student, this template empowers you to create a professional and compelling marketing research proposal with minimal effort.
Don't miss out on the opportunity to streamline your research proposal process. Download this content-ready PowerPoint template and unlock the potential to communicate your research findings and drive informed decision-making with ease.
Download now
For both professionals and students, having access to basic marketing research proposal templates is an excellent tool. The custom-made templates offer a well-organized framework for creating thorough and successful business service proposals . Using these examples, you can save time, speed up your research process, and ensure your proposals are compelling. With the correct template, you can communicate your research's goals, methods, and anticipated results, paving the way for effective advertising campaigns and wise strategic choices. Utilize these crucial resources to improve the impact and caliber of your marketing research ideas.
What is a marketing research proposal.
A marketing research proposal outlines a planned project to acquire data and insights on marketing practices, customer behavior, market trends, competitor analysis, or other pertinent topics. It provides a precise structure for tackling particular research objectives and acts as a guide for doing the study. An executive overview, study objectives, methodology, sample selection, data analysis techniques, project dates, and anticipated results are common proposal elements.
In addition to outlining the research strategy, a strong marketing research proposal also emphasizes the importance and possible significance of the study. The research serves as a foundation for decision-making and resource allocation, and it aids stakeholders in understanding the study's aim, scope, and methodology.
The following are the seven elements of a market research proposal:
The five parts of a research proposal typically include the following:
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Use this template to create a proposal for a market research study.
This tool can be used alone, but it’s also part of the comprehensive Market Research Playbook. It provides step-by-step planning guidance while also helping you utilize more than 25 downloadable tools from the popular AMA Marketer’s Toolkit library.
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Published: August 08, 2024
One of the most underrated skills you can have as a marketer is marketing research — which is great news for this unapologetic cyber sleuth.
From brand design and product development to buyer personas and competitive analysis, I’ve researched a number of initiatives in my decade-long marketing career.
And let me tell you: having the right marketing research methods in your toolbox is a must.
Market research is the secret to crafting a strategy that will truly help you accomplish your goals. The good news is there is no shortage of options.
Thanks to the Internet, we have more marketing research (or market research) methods at our fingertips than ever, but they’re not all created equal. Let’s quickly go over how to choose the right one.
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What are you researching? Do you need to understand your audience better? How about your competition? Or maybe you want to know more about your customer’s feelings about a specific product.
Before starting your research, take some time to identify precisely what you’re looking for. This could be a goal you want to reach, a problem you need to solve, or a question you need to answer.
For example, an objective may be as foundational as understanding your ideal customer better to create new buyer personas for your marketing agency (pause for flashbacks to my former life).
Or if you’re an organic sode company, it could be trying to learn what flavors people are craving.
Next, determine what data type will best answer the problems or questions you identified. There are primarily two types: qualitative and quantitative. (Sound familiar, right?)
Understanding the differences between qualitative and quantitative data will help you pinpoint which research methods will yield the desired results.
For instance, thinking of our earlier examples, qualitative data would usually be best suited for buyer personas, while quantitative data is more useful for the soda flavors.
However, truth be told, the two really work together.
Qualitative conclusions are usually drawn from quantitative, numerical data. So, you’ll likely need both to get the complete picture of your subject.
For example, if your quantitative data says 70% of people are Team Black and only 30% are Team Green — Shout out to my fellow House of the Dragon fans — your qualitative data will say people support Black more than Green.
(As they should.)
You’ll also want to understand the difference between primary and secondary research.
Primary research involves collecting new, original data directly from the source (say, your target market). In other words, it’s information gathered first-hand that wasn’t found elsewhere.
Some examples include conducting experiments, surveys, interviews, observations, or focus groups.
Meanwhile, secondary research is the analysis and interpretation of existing data collected from others. Think of this like what we used to do for school projects: We would read a book, scour the internet, or pull insights from others to work from.
So, which is better?
Personally, I say any research is good research, but if you have the time and resources, primary research is hard to top. With it, you don’t have to worry about your source's credibility or how relevant it is to your specific objective.
You are in full control and best equipped to get the reliable information you need.
Once you know your objective and what kind of data you want, you’re ready to select your marketing research method.
For instance, let’s say you’re a restaurant trying to see how attendees felt about the Speed Dating event you hosted last week.
You shouldn’t run a field experiment or download a third-party report on speed dating events; those would be useless to you. You need to conduct a survey that allows you to ask pointed questions about the event.
This would yield both qualitative and quantitative data you can use to improve and bring together more love birds next time around.
Now that you know what you’re looking for in a marketing research method, let’s dive into the best options.
Note: According to HubSpot’s 2024 State of Marketing report, understanding customers and their needs is one of the biggest challenges facing marketers today. The options we discuss are great consumer research methodologies , but they can also be used for other areas.
1. interviews.
Interviews are a form of primary research where you ask people specific questions about a topic or theme. They typically deliver qualitative information.
I’ve conducted many interviews for marketing purposes, but I’ve also done many for journalistic purposes, like this profile on comedian Zarna Garg . There’s no better way to gather candid, open-ended insights in my book, but that doesn’t mean they’re a cure-all.
What I like: Real-time conversations allow you to ask different questions if you’re not getting the information you need. They also push interviewees to respond quickly, which can result in more authentic answers.
What I dislike: They can be time-consuming and harder to measure (read: get quantitative data) unless you ask pointed yes or no questions.
Best for: Creating buyer personas or getting feedback on customer experience, a product, or content.
Focus groups are similar to conducting interviews but on a larger scale.
In marketing and business, this typically means getting a small group together in a room (or Zoom), asking them questions about various topics you are researching. You record and/or observe their responses to then take action.
They are ideal for collecting long-form, open-ended feedback, and subjective opinions.
One well-known focus group you may remember was run by Domino’s Pizza in 2009 .
After poor ratings and dropping over $100 million in revenue, the brand conducted focus groups with real customers to learn where they could have done better.
It was met with comments like “worst excuse for pizza I’ve ever had” and “the crust tastes like cardboard.” But rather than running from the tough love, it took the hit and completely overhauled its recipes.
The team admitted their missteps and returned to the market with better food and a campaign detailing their “Pizza Turn Around.”
The result? The brand won a ton of praise for its willingness to take feedback, efforts to do right by its consumers, and clever campaign. But, most importantly, revenue for Domino’s rose by 14.3% over the previous year.
The brand continues to conduct focus groups and share real footage from them in its promotion:
What I like: Similar to interviewing, you can dig deeper and pivot as needed due to the real-time nature. They’re personal and detailed.
What I dislike: Once again, they can be time-consuming and make it difficult to get quantitative data. There is also a chance some participants may overshadow others.
Best for: Product research or development
Pro tip: Need help planning your focus group? Our free Market Research Kit includes a handy template to start organizing your thoughts in addition to a SWOT Analysis Template, Survey Template, Focus Group Template, Presentation Template, Five Forces Industry Analysis Template, and an instructional guide for all of them. Download yours here now.
Surveys are a form of primary research where individuals are asked a collection of questions. It can take many different forms.
They could be in person, over the phone or video call, by email, via an online form, or even on social media. Questions can be also open-ended or closed to deliver qualitative or quantitative information.
A great example of a close-ended survey is HubSpot’s annual State of Marketing .
In the State of Marketing, HubSpot asks marketing professionals from around the world a series of multiple-choice questions to gather data on the state of the marketing industry and to identify trends.
The survey covers various topics related to marketing strategies, tactics, tools, and challenges that marketers face. It aims to provide benchmarks to help you make informed decisions about your marketing.
It also helps us understand where our customers’ heads are so we can better evolve our products to meet their needs.
Apple is no stranger to surveys, either.
In 2011, the tech giant launched Apple Customer Pulse , which it described as “an online community of Apple product users who provide input on a variety of subjects and issues concerning Apple.”
"For example, we did a large voluntary survey of email subscribers and top readers a few years back."
While these readers gave us a long list of topics, formats, or content types they wanted to see, they sometimes engaged more with content types they didn’t select or favor as much on the surveys when we ran follow-up ‘in the wild’ tests, like A/B testing.”
Pepsi saw similar results when it ran its iconic field experiment, “The Pepsi Challenge” for the first time in 1975.
The beverage brand set up tables at malls, beaches, and other public locations and ran a blindfolded taste test. Shoppers were given two cups of soda, one containing Pepsi, the other Coca-Cola (Pepsi’s biggest competitor). They were then asked to taste both and report which they preferred.
People overwhelmingly preferred Pepsi, and the brand has repeated the experiment multiple times over the years to the same results.
What I like: It yields qualitative and quantitative data and can make for engaging marketing content, especially in the digital age.
What I dislike: It can be very time-consuming. And, if you’re not careful, there is a high risk for scientific error.
Best for: Product testing and competitive analysis
Pro tip: " Don’t make critical business decisions off of just one data set," advises Pamela Bump. "Use the survey, competitive intelligence, external data, or even a focus group to give you one layer of ideas or a short-list for improvements or solutions to test. Then gather your own fresh data to test in an experiment or trial and better refine your data-backed strategy."
8. public domain or third-party research.
While original data is always a plus, there are plenty of external resources you can access online and even at a library when you’re limited on time or resources.
Some reputable resources you can use include:
It’s also smart to turn to reputable organizations that are specific to your industry or field. For instance, if you’re a gardening or landscaping company, you may want to pull statistics from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
If you’re a digital marketing agency, you could look to Google Research or HubSpot Research . (Hey, I know them!)
What I like: You can save time on gathering data and spend more time on analyzing. You can also rest assured the data is from a source you trust.
What I dislike: You may not find data specific to your needs.
Best for: Companies under a time or resource crunch, adding factual support to content
Pro tip: Fellow HubSpotter Iskiev suggests using third-party data to inspire your original research. “Sometimes, I use public third-party data for ideas and inspiration. Once I have written my survey and gotten all my ideas out, I read similar reports from other sources and usually end up with useful additions for my own research.”
If the data you need isn’t available publicly and you can’t do your own market research, you can also buy some. There are many reputable analytics companies that offer subscriptions to access their data. Statista is one of my favorites, but there’s also Euromonitor , Mintel , and BCC Research .
What I like: Same as public domain research
What I dislike: You may not find data specific to your needs. It also adds to your expenses.
Best for: Companies under a time or resource crunch or adding factual support to content
You’re not going to like my answer, but “it depends.” The best marketing research method for you will depend on your objective and data needs, but also your budget and timeline.
My advice? Aim for a mix of quantitative and qualitative data. If you can do your own original research, awesome. But if not, don’t beat yourself up. Lean into free or low-cost tools . You could do primary research for qualitative data, then tap public sources for quantitative data. Or perhaps the reverse is best for you.
Whatever your marketing research method mix, take the time to think it through and ensure you’re left with information that will truly help you achieve your goals.
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Biden-Harris Administration delivers on promise to lower prescription drug costs for Americans
In a historic moment that will help lower prescription drug prices for millions of people across America, the Biden-Harris Administration announced that it has reached agreements for new, lower prices for all 10 drugs selected for negotiations. These negotiated drugs are some of the most expensive and most frequently dispensed drugs in the Medicare program and are used to treat conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. The new prices will go into effect for people with Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage beginning January 1, 2026.
If the new prices had been in effect last year, Medicare would have saved an estimated $6 billion, or approximately 22 percent, across the 10 selected drugs. These negotiated prices range from 38 to 79 percent discounts off of list prices. About nine million people with Medicare use at least one of the 10 drugs selected for negotiation. People with Medicare prescription drug coverage are expected to see aggregated estimated savings of $1.5 billion in their personal out-of-pocket costs in 2026. For more detailed information about the negotiated prices please see the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Negotiated Prices Fact Sheet .
“Americans pay too much for their prescription drugs. That makes today’s announcement historic. For the first time ever, Medicare negotiated directly with drug companies and the American people are better off for it,” said U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Xavier Becerra. “Congressional budget estimators (Congressional Budget Office) predicted about $100 billion savings over 10 years from drug negotiations, and a $3.7 billion savings in the first year alone. Today we’re announcing that in our first year of negotiations we are saving Medicare an estimated $6 billion and Americans who pay out of pocket will be saving another $1.5 billion moving forward. Empowering Medicare to negotiate prices not only strengthens the program for generations to come, but also puts a check on skyrocketing drug prices.”
“CMS is proud to have negotiated drug prices for people with Medicare for the first time. These negotiations will not only lower the prices of critically important medications for cancer, diabetes, heart failure, and more, but will also save billions of dollars,” said CMS Administrator Chiquita Brooks-LaSure. “Medicare drug price negotiation and the lower prices announced today demonstrate the commitment of CMS and the Biden-Harris Administration to lower health care and prescription drug costs for Americans. We made a promise to the American people, and today, we are thrilled to share that we have fulfilled that promise.”
As a hypothetical example, a senior with Medicare who takes Stelara pays a 25% coinsurance on the drug which may amount to about $3,400 today for a 30-day supply. When the negotiated price goes into effect in 2026, that same 25% coinsurance would cost the beneficiary about $1,100 before the person reaches the catastrophic cap, after which the beneficiary will pay no more out of pocket on their prescription drugs. A beneficiary’s actual costs will depend on their plan’s benefit design.
In August 2023, HHS announced the first 10 drugs covered under Medicare Part D selected for the first cycle of negotiations.
The selected drugs accounted for $56.2 billion in total Medicare spending, or about 20 percent of total Part D gross spending in 2023. Overall, total Part D gross spending for the 10 selected drugs more than doubled from 2018 to 2022, from about $20 billion to about $46 billion, an increase of 134 percent. Medicare enrollees paid a total of $3.4 billion in out-of-pocket costs in 2022 for these drugs.
“CMS negotiated in good faith on behalf of the millions of people who rely on these 10 drugs for their health and well-being. The new negotiated prices will bring much needed financial relief, affordability, and access,” said Meena Seshamani, MD, PhD, CMS Deputy Administrator and Director of the Center for Medicare. “Throughout the process, we remained true to our commitment to be thoughtful and transparent, meeting publicly with patients, providers, health plans, pharmacies, drug companies and others to help inform the process. We will continue to do so for future cycles. Our team is actively working on the next cycle of negotiations where we will combine what we have learned from this first cycle and apply it in negotiating prices for the next round of up to 15 selected drugs.”
The Office of the Assistant Secretary for Planning and Evaluation (ASPE) also released new data today detailing historic pricing trends of the 10 drugs selected for the first cycle of the negotiation program. The report finds that from 2018 to 2023, list prices increased as much as 55 percent.
CMS will select up to 15 more drugs covered under Part D for negotiation for 2027 by February 1, 2025. CMS will select up to 15 more drugs covered by Part B or Part D for 2028, and up to 20 more Part B or Part D drugs for each year after that, as required by the Inflation Reduction Act.
In addition to these newly negotiated prices, people with Medicare are already experiencing lower drug costs thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act. And, next year, all Medicare Part D enrollees will benefit from a $2,000 out-of-pocket cap on their prescription drug costs, further making prescription drugs more affordable for seniors and people with disabilities.
View the CMS Negotiated Prices Fact Sheet at https://www.cms.gov/files/document/fact-sheet-negotiated-prices-initial-price-applicability-year-2026.pdf
View the Historic Trends Fact Sheet from the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Planning and Evaluation (ASPE) at https://aspe.hhs.gov/reports/medicare-drug-price-negotiation-program-comparing-drug-price
View a CMS Plain Language infographic at https://www.cms.gov/files/document/infographic-negotiated-prices-maximum-fair-prices.pdf
For more information about the Inflation Reduction Act, including plain language materials, please visit LowerDrugCosts.gov . For more information available in Spanish, please visit MedicamentosBajoPrecio.gov .
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Biden-Harris Administration delivers on promise to lower prescription drug costs for Americans. In a historic moment that will help lower prescription drug prices for millions of people across America, the Biden-Harris Administration announced that it has reached agreements for new, lower prices for all 10 drugs selected for negotiations.