Suggested methods of research

SURVEY A survey is made to seek out information about actual conditions or events. Firstly the main area of investigation has to be decided, followed by the methods to carry out the survey e.g. at someone's residence, on a face-to-face basis, through the phone etc. A survey can be conducted among the parents of children to find out their daily intake and if they are aware of the food additives present in their child's …

…product. Advantages of experiments i. They are relatively easy to set up, carry out and gather consumers' first reactions to the products. Disadvantages of experiments i. People might not give their real feelings so as not to cause offence. ii. A representative sample of consumers may not be asked, as only the people who shop in those particular supermarkets are asked. iii. Many other potential consumers may shop elsewhere and they will not be asked.