Which of the following is the first step in undertaking a marketing research project?
A. Define the problem.
B. Solve the problem.
C. Collect problem-specific data.
D. Analyze the situation.
E. Define a sample.
Answer: (A) Defining the problem is the first step that should be undertaken. Solving the problem (B) is the final step that should be undertaken, and is thus incorrect. Collecting problem-specific data (C) cannot be undertaken until the problem is defined. Analyzing the situation (D) is the second step, and therefore is incorrect. Defining a sample (E) shouldn't be undertaken until after the situation has been analyzed.