Market analysis is a strategic evaluation method used by businesses to understand the complexities of a specific market. It breaks down the market into segments, allowing for a more focused approach towards individualized products and services, in light of increasing competition and saturated consumption. Crucial to this analysis are factors such as market size, determined by volume and potential, along with market trends that showcase movement over time. It includes an assessment of opportunities and threats that may impact future market attractiveness. Market analysis also considers market opportunities, which are ways to better meet market needs than competitors. It’s a key tool in sales[2] forecasting, market research[1], and forming marketing strategies. Understanding the process and techniques used in market analysis is vital for analysts and managers alike.
A market analysis studies the attractiveness and the dynamics of a special market within a special industry. It is part of the industry analysis and thus in turn of the global environmental analysis. Through all of these analyses the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats (SWOT) of a company can be identified. Finally, with the help of a SWOT analysis, adequate business strategies of a company will be defined. The market analysis is also known as a documented investigation of a market that is used to inform a firm's planning activities, particularly around decisions of inventory, purchase, work force expansion/contraction, facility expansion, purchases of capital equipment, promotional activities, and many other aspects of a company.