Marketing Research Project Walkthrough

What is the program

Each semester, Marketing seniors (in the Marketing Research course) and graduate students work with the Center for Business Research on a major project. The students work in 3-4 person teams, and each team handles a client arranged by Dr. Barnes. A research study is designed, a survey instrument drafted, and, with approval by the client, data collection begins. The data is then analyzed with statistical software packages and presented in a clear, full-color, 50-80 page report. Dr. Barnes leads each team directly, supervising and approving each and every step of the project.

Who can be a client?

Any local, regional, or national business. Previous clients include the Distilled Spirits Council of the US, the Massachusetts Cranberry Industry, Fall River Ford, and many smaller local business.

What is in that final report?

Within the final report, you can find an executive summary, a statistically valid sample of your customers or target audience, full report on each survey question, and recommendations based on the data. Clients also receive a CD ROM with the final report and survey data, all original survey forms. Clients are given all this at a special Client Reception (dinner) at the end of the semester.

How much does it cost?

Clients pay $5,000 for a typical study ($4,500 for Chamber members or non-profit groups). These studies have an appraised market value of $15,000-$20,000! Projects which are larger in scope are conducted outside of the research class and are priced accordingly.

Where do I sign up?

If you or your business would be interested in becoming a client, contact Dr. Barnes by phone: (508) 999-8756 or by email: nbarnes@umassd.edu.

Can I see a sample study?

You can view some sample studies on this web site.

All projects are conducted under the direct supervision of Dr. Nora Ganim Barnes, Chancellor Professor of Marketing, and Director of The Center for Business Research.