Me and a friend are considering starting our own computer repair business, however we’d like to carry out some market research before deciding to invest any money. The only strategy we have thought of so far is to stand in a crowded shopping mall and ask people to complete a survey but we doubt this will be effective.

I would appreciate any suggestions on other types of market research or confirmation that surveying is a good method and also how many people we should survey to make our data credible.

Have you ever heard of The Local Index? It’s a new site that provides local businesses a free website to showcase their products & services. It works like myspace but for local businesses. I think it would be a great way for you to get the exposure that you are looking for. They also have a contact Importer to import current customers to your new store, with announcements to keep them updated on your business. Local Business events, networking events and a whole lot more.

The Goal of this site is to reintroduce the concept of local businesses to consumers as the hip, hot new thing. Instead of Pizza Hut, Walmart, Circuit City and Etc.

Business Samples:
Auto

http://www.thelocalindex.com/store/?ID=1…

Clothing

http://www.thelocalindex.com/store/?ID=8

Food & Dining

http://www.thelocalindex.com/store/?ID=9

Spa

http://www.thelocalindex.com/store/?ID=5

I am starting a business that has not been started yet, and I need to conduct some market research to answer some of the questions about the business. I was thinking about just going to the mall and giving people a questionare, but there has to be an easier way. Are there any websites that offer market research solutions for small businesses?

I need to create a survey/questionare and have a few hundred people answer it. Does anyone know how I can do this. Thank you very much.
Yes I am on a budget, but I can spend about $1,000. If I could spend less that would be great, but I do have a little money to spend.

If you’re on a budget, then actual footwork is the best way to go. Dress nicely, then develop a very short but concise questionnaire. There are websites available but they are pricey, as well as there’s nothing like developing relationships with the public.
Also, the interviewee might be willing to give you their contact information, which you can use when you’re finally in business.