[Question] Experience Product Research Advisory Board?

[The Invisible Assistant]

Hi VA's,

I'm looking for a little advice about product research in response to a potential client's questions. First, when you conduct research, do you rely on your own resources or do you use other professional sources (i.e., subcontract)? Second, have you either heard of or had to find a group of people to be on an Advisory Board that would essentially serve as a think tank for ideas? The client is looking at market research, essentially, for new product ideas.

Let me know if any of this is too vague or if you have ideas.

Thanks, Gina

[THVA Trish]

Gina,
A couple of questions: Is the research about finding the think tank members? What subcontractor would you use to conduct the research?

Need some details and I'll try to offer some suggestions.
...Trish.

[The Invisible Assistant]

Hi Trish,
The client wants me to put to together the think tank members, so that they can help him with finding ideas for new products he can sell. I'm not sure who the research could be subcontracted to. I have conducted my own research (internet/library) in the past, so I feel I am qualified to conduct research. I'm unsure how to go about finding people who could be members of this think tank.

Thanks for your response,
Gina

[executive_assist]

The client needs to let you know who his target market is. If he is wanting to put together a product for families, it would be pointless for you to put in members of the college crowd or the elderly. IMO.

[CJ's Virtual Business Solution]

It seems like a strange request for a client to ask that you put together his think tank. I, personally, would be a little leary. If he doesn't like the "think tank's" comments/advice he might say it was your fault.

Did he give you a rationale for you finding his think thank?

Carol

[ladydianab]

Gina,
I highly recommend reading "Creating Demand" by Gerardo V. Tabio. This book will give you some real helps on how to lead a "think tank" team. It is all about product research etc..
Good lluck to you!
Diana

[The Invisible Assistant]

Hi everyone,

Thanks for your input. After discussing this further with the client, he wants me to be a part of the think tank, not necessarily in charge of it. But I will check out "Creating Demand" so that I can play a bigger role in the think tank. Thanks for your recommendation, Diana, and Carol for your advice.

Gina