Other forms of research

below find a list of reseach techniques I have not yet explored, followed by their benefits and draw backs:

Experiments:
This form of research could produce factual data to collect, and would give you detailed information. The more people you run the experiment with, the more reliable your out come is. For example, the results from one person can not represent everyone in their demographic.
Experimental research can be difficult to organise, as you need controlled variables and a lot of people to partake. Also, when people are taken out of their natural environment they may give different results.

participant observation:
Although this form of research allows the observer to experience the product/task first hand, it only allows them to see if it is siutable for them. An observer testing a product may not take into consideration the needs of others. For example, very short sighted people have different needs to someone with perfect vision.

rhetorical analysis:
The idea behind this research is the study of the language used in media texts. It shows what the people selling the product think of the audience. However it is not the most useful form of research because it is more interesting to find out how the audience reacts to different forms of language. It produces difficult data to collect.

Historical research:
This form of research compares old products with ones produced in the modern day, it allows you to see how asspects of it have changed over time. This could be useful when researching change in societies atitudes and how media representation has changed.

comparative analysis
This seems a very obvious form of research, it can be very useful as it gives you very specific answers. However the process of chosing products to compare is almost biast in itself. Also how many products you chose to compare will effect your results. It would be useful for audience reseach. Results from from comparative analysis are often very opinion based.

competitor:
competitor analysis gives a fuller view of the market, what you are up against, what you need to be better than and what you differ from.