👉 Contest research is a method used in marketing and product development to gather qualitative insights from potential customers through structured competitions or challenges. Participants are typically given a specific task, such as designing a product feature, solving a problem, or creating a marketing campaign, and are encouraged to submit their ideas based on criteria provided by the researcher. This approach allows researchers to tap into creative thinking and diverse perspectives in a controlled environment, often revealing innovative solutions that might not emerge through traditional surveys or interviews. By analyzing the submitted entries, researchers can identify trends, preferences, and unmet needs, which inform product development and marketing strategies. Contest research is particularly valuable for testing hypotheses and engaging consumers directly, fostering a sense of involvement and loyalty.