This should be the first step to making your business plans. You need to know your potential customers and their needs. You will also need to assess any competing solutions for your customers' needs.

See the links for below for Market Research resources available.

Edinburgh University Library On-Line:

Matriculated students have access to a wide range of market research resources free of charge. LAUNCH.ed holds a clinic to help guide you through these resources.

SCOTBIS - Scottish Business Information Service

Based on George VI Bridge and part of the National Library of Scotland, they provide a national business information service to the Scottish community and beyond. Holds an extensive range of resources, with a particular emphasis on company and market information. Much can be accessed free of charge.

Business Gateway - Business-Information-Services

This service is available to businesses and individuals with business ideas in Edinburgh and Lothian. Offers access to a wide range of market research tools, company and financial information, commercial property information, and business information.

Market Research Society Guidelines

The MRS provides codes of conduct and guidelines which supplement the Code and Regulations, providing interpretation and best practice advice on conducting primary market research.

Lothians Project

As part of the Edinburgh MBA, full-time students undertake a team consultancy project on behalf of local companies. Known as the Lothians Consultancy Project, it offers participating companies an excellent opportunity to have projects carried out by high calibre, talented students.