When it comes to selling fast moving consumer goods like fragrances how can a company use youth marketing research to sell its products? It’s an interesting question because it illustrates how important market research is whether you are selling pharmaceuticals, financial services or lust.

Axe makes body sprays for young men.

Market research can be used in identifying customer needs, as well as who they are. You have to ask the right questions though. If you don’t really know your customers you will not retain them leaving you constantly chasing after new ones. Don’t just follow your instincts as many companies do. Use market research reports, focus groups and market surveys. Take the time too really get to know them. Ask the right questions; get the facts; and discover how to motivate your customers.

Do you have market research projects waiting on the outcome of the election? Many eyes were on Denver this week when President Obama and Governor Romney met for the first of the presidential debates. Business decision makers from the U.S. and abroad were hoping to get their first glimpse into the future White House occupants, and with good reason. There are a host of policy alternatives at play in this election that will affect the course of industries from healthcare to energy, transportation to construction, and telecom to agriculture.

When Procter and Gamble's Charmin Toilet Paper brand made the business decision to break into an already saturated German market it relied heavily on market research to ensure that its Charmin brand would succeed.

Charmin toilet paper has been around for 70 years, so clearly it has wiped the cheeks of everyone from Harry S. Truman to Lady Gaga. They probably know everything there is to know about butts! Maybe there’s piped music blaring through their offices by Sir Mix-a-lot. "I like big butts, and I cannot lie!" Alright, maybe not, but how great would that be!