The Importance of User Research and User Experience (UX) Research in the FMCG Realm
June 21, 2024

In the dynamic FMCG sector, understanding consumer behavior and preferences is crucial for success. Market research plays a pivotal role in uncovering these insights, enabling companies to make data-driven decisions that drive growth and profitability. Two key aspects of market research are User Research and User Experience Research.
Understanding User Research and User Experience Research
- What is User Research? User research focuses on understanding the target audience's behaviors, needs, motivations, and pain points through observation techniques, task analysis, and other feedback methodologies.
- Techniques of User Research By employing methodologies like surveys & questionnaires, in-depth interviews, focus groups, participatory designs and ethnographic studies, FMCG companies can gain valuable insights into consumer behavior, purchase decisions, and brand perceptions.
- Usage of User Research This knowledge informs the companies about market segments, product development, brand perception, purchase decision factors, consumer behavior trends, cultural & regional insights, customer persona development, post-purchase behavior, and overall customer experience.
- What is User Experience Research? User experience research, on the other hand, specifically examines all aspects of the end-user’s interaction with the company, its services, and its products.
- Techniques of User Experience Research Through techniques such as usability testing, A/B testing, eye-tracking, accessibility evaluation, customer journey mapping, prototype testing and sentiment & feedback analysis, FMCG companies can create seamless and engaging experiences that resonate with their target audiences.
- Usage of User Experience Research This research helps companies understand packaging design, products usability, unboxing experience, in-store experience, accessibility, channel compatibility & optimization, and personalization requirements.
- Synergy of User Research and User Experience Research While distinct, user research and UX research are most powerful when used in tandem and can be implemented in any stage of the business. User research provides the 'what' and 'why' of consumer behavior, while UX research focuses on the 'how.' Together, they offer a comprehensive understanding of the consumer, enabling several industries including FMCG to create products that not only meet functional needs but also provide satisfying experiences.
How Can MBG Help
MBG’s experienced team specializes in delivering comprehensive market research solutions for the diversified sectors including FMCG sector. Our expertise lies in combining user research and user experience research methodologies to provide clients with a holistic understanding of their consumers. By leveraging cutting-edge technologies, MBG creates immersive product testing environments and virtual shopping simulations, offering unparalleled insights into consumer behavior and preferences.
Additionally, MBG's researchers integrate advanced data analytics and biometric techniques to uncover the emotional drivers behind consumer behavior. This deep understanding of consumer psychology empowers FMCG companies to develop products, marketing campaigns, and brand positioning strategies that resonate deeply with their target audiences, driving growth and long-term success.