Chapter 8

I think the best research method for Mike or any other small business starting off would be a blog. First of all, the internet is becoming more and more popular. People are blogging and reading other blogs more often. They are constantly on the computer finding new things that interest them. The age range we are looking at for Mike's target are younger and high tech. They are the ones that would understand what a blog is and be interested in it. A blog is also good for Mike because it's speaking to consumers on a more personal level. It's more laid back and fun, like Mike's product. What Mike does is an art and there's a story behind it. There's nothing else out there like Mike's products. Mike can tell little stories in his blogs about what he's working on. People who love his art would love reading the blog about what's new and what he's working on. Consumers can comment on the blogs of what they like about his work, what he should change and what they want out of it. I think they would feel more comfortable being completely honest in a blog. He can take this information and use it to his advantage. I think a blog is the perfect tone for Mike's products. It's real and communicates on a personal level.