Gallup also uses a series of validation checks to ensure the data is accurate and representative of the total population. Their methodology is among the most thorough of companies completing polls today. As a result, it is common for all the major networks to quote from Gallup surveys and the presidential election coverage also relies on the analyses of their research to define who the winner will be of the election. Based on the reliability of their research, their brand as a research provider is among the most trusted. 3. Any significant business decision requires input from a research project. Write a brief essay either defending this statement or refuting it.

The essence of any effective business decision is the mitigation of risk and the optimizing of opportunity. The greater the amount of relevant information, often acquired through primary research strategies, the greater the risk reduction. Therefore, it is imperative that research be used to mitigate risk over time. The use of research to further delineate the most vs. least attractive strategies for attaining corporate goals is critically important and necessary (Bar-Isaac, Caruana, Cunat, 375). Without research, the odds of making a poor decision increase exponentially. The accelerating effects of a difficult economic climate also fuel the urgency for using research as a means to gain insights into what is most important in terms of threats and opportunities for strategies going forward.

To launch a sophisticated product or service without research is to invite failure and a continual trial-and-error process until a product or service is positioned correctly in the market and sold profitably. Research cuts out all the iterations of trial-and-error in any market or business strategy, it clarifies the risks and makes the opportunities more defined. Finally, research can tell any decision-maker how a market is changing based on consumer or customer demand. Keeping pace with the changing requirements of customers is critical for any business strategy to succeed. Research keeps strategies relevant and reduces risk.
References

Bar-Isaac, H., G. Caruana, and V. Cunat. "Information Gathering and Marketing. " Journal of Economics & Management Strategy 19.2 (2010): 375. ABI/INFORM Global, ProQuest. Web. 25 Aug. 2010.

Joseph Ben-Ur, and Bruce I. Newman. "A marketing poll: an innovative approach to prediction, explanation and strategy. " European Journal of Marketing 44.3/4 (2010): 515.

Peter Kellner. "Can online polls produce accurate findings? " International Journal of Market Research 46.(2004): 3.

Robinson, C.. "Sampling People. " The Journal for Quality and Participation 31.3 (2008): 17-19.

Van Ryzin, G.. "Validity of an Online Panel Approach to Citizen Surveys. " Public Performance…