How to Conduct Market Research in Deep Tech Space

13 Dec 2023

If you're diving headfirst into the deep tech space, you probably know that it's not just about having the rarest technology or the most cutting-edge algorithms. Commercial success in the deep tech arena requires a secret weapon: market research.  

According to a recent survey by Statista, 42% of consumers are more likely to engage with a product if they feel a personal connection to the brand. Market research helps you understand your target audience, competitive landscape and business environment. Knowing your market scape is like having a hawk-eye view. 

In the ever-evolving deep tech world, yesterday's innovation is today's nostalgia. Market research is your crystal ball, helping you predict trends and stay ahead of the curve. By understanding the market, you can tailor your strategy to meet real time needs, avoiding expensive missteps, and ensuring that every step is taken towards success.  

A study published in the Journal of Product Innovation Management found that companies that invest in market research are more likely to launch successful products and achieve higher profitability.  

Why does Deep tech require special attention while conducting market research?

Before starting the celebration of an impending tech glory, let's talk about why conducting market research in the deep tech space is not just a good idea – it's downright essential.  

Intricacies of Complex Systems: 

We're talking about deep tech market space technologies that make your brain do somersaults just trying to understand the jargon.  

According to a survey by Accenture, 94% of business leaders in the tech industry believe that the pace of innovation in their organizations is at risk due to the complexity of their technology landscape.  

Without special attention to this complexity, you might find yourself in a market research maze with no way out.  

Rapid Evolution, Faster Obsolescence:

Change is constant in deep tech. What's revolutionary today might be obsolete next quarter.  

A report by McKinsey found that the average life cycle of technology products is shrinking, with some segments experiencing a 12–18-month cycle.  

Traditional market research models struggle to keep up with the breakneck speed of innovation in the deep tech space. Conducting research that anticipates the next quantum leap is a challenge, but it's the only way to stay ahead of the curve. 

Niche Markets, Specific Needs:

Deep tech often caters to niche markets with highly specialized needs. Understanding the intricacies of these niche markets – their pain points, aspirations, and unique challenges is crucial. 

According to a study by BCG, 70% of tech executives see a growing need to tailor products and services to the unique needs of niche markets.  

Your deep tech solution might be a game-changer, but only if it aligns with the specific demands of your target audience.  

Hesitant Adopters and Trust Issues:

When you're dealing with groundbreaking technologies like AI, blockchain, or quantum computing, trust is paramount. Potential users may be hesitant, skeptical, or downright terrified of the unknown.  

A survey by Edelman found that 57% of global respondents believe that technology is evolving too quickly for them to adapt, leading to a trust gap.  

Market research in deep tech involves gauging not only the demand for innovation but also understanding and addressing the fears that may accompany it.  

Regulatory Rollercoaster:

Deep tech is about navigating the regulatory landscape. From data privacy concerns to ethical considerations, the regulatory environment can make or break a deep tech venture.  

According to a report by PwC, 85% of CEOs in the tech industry are concerned about the impact of overregulation on their growth prospects. Market research needs to be a compass, guiding you through the ever-shifting regulatory terrain.  

In addition to this, applying the concept of VUCA (Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, and Ambiguity) to deep tech market research acknowledges the dynamic and rapidly evolving nature of the industry. 

Here's how you can weave VUCA into your approach:  

Volatility:

The deep tech market is characterized by rapid and unpredictable changes in technology, market trends, and regulatory landscapes. This volatility demands adaptability and flexibility in market research approaches. Researchers need to be constantly monitoring the market and adapting their research methods to stay informed and relevant. 

Uncertainty:

The deep tech space is often shrouded in uncertainty, with limited data availability and emerging technologies that present both opportunities and challenges. This uncertainty requires a willingness to embrace ambiguity and employ creative research methods. Researchers may need to rely on expert opinions, scenario planning, and predictive modeling to gain insights into potential market outcomes. 

Complexity:

The deep tech market is highly complex, with interconnected technologies, diverse applications, and a global reach. This complexity necessitates a holistic approach to market research. Researchers need to consider multiple factors, including technical feasibility, market demand, regulatory compliance, and societal impact, to fully assess the potential of deep tech innovations. 

Ambiguity:

The deep tech market is often marked by ambiguity, with conflicting information, divergent opinions, and unclear market signals. This ambiguity calls for careful interpretation of data and a recognition of the limitations of market research. Researchers need to be transparent about the assumptions and uncertainties inherent in their findings, emphasizing the need for continuous learning and adaptation.  

By embracing VUCA in deep tech market research, you equip yourself with a mindset that is attuned to the challenges and opportunities inherent in this rapidly evolving industry. It's not just about predicting the future; it's about preparing to thrive in an environment defined by volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity. 

What are the Methods and tools for market research in DeepTech space?

Navigating the deep tech space requires a savvy approach to market research. Here are some methodologies tailored to the intricacies of the deep tech landscape:  

Desk Research: 

This involves gathering information from secondary sources such as industry reports, academic journals, news articles, and company websites. This provides a comprehensive overview of the DeepTech landscape, identifying key trends, technologies, and market players.  

Primary Research:  

This involves collecting firsthand data through primary methods such as surveys, interviews, and focus groups. These methods allow for in-depth understanding of customer needs, perceptions, and preferences, providing valuable insights into market potential. 

Expert Interviews:

Engaging with industry experts, researchers, and investors provides valuable insights into the DeepTech ecosystem, emerging technologies, and market trends. These discussions can help identify areas of untapped potential and inform strategic decision-making.  

Industry Reports and Market Intelligence Platforms:  

Subscribing to industry reports and market intelligence platforms provides access to in-depth analysis, market forecasts, and competitor data, enabling informed decision-making.  

Collaboration with Research Institutions: 

Forge partnerships with research institutions and universities working on cutting-edge technologies. Collaborative projects can provide access to the latest research, technological advancements, and a pool of knowledgeable experts.   

Engagement with Startup Incubators:  

Interacting with startup incubators and accelerators can provide insights into emerging deeptech startups, their technologies, and their potential impact on the market.  

For a comprehensive understanding of the external factors that may impact your venture, integrate the PESTLE analysis method into your deep tech market research.  
Let's break down how to apply the PESTLE framework in the context of deep tech:  

P - Political Factors 

Regulatory Landscape: 

  • Investigate the current political climate regarding deep tech regulations. 

  • Assess how government policies may impact the development and deployment of deep tech solutions. 

  • Consider geopolitical factors that could influence cross-border collaborations and market access. 

Government Support and Incentives: 

  • Explore government initiatives supporting deep tech innovation. 

  • Evaluate the availability of grants, subsidies, or tax incentives for research and development in the deep tech sector.  

E - Economic Factors 

Market Size and Growth: 

  • Analyze the economic indicators relevant to the deep tech market. 

  • Evaluate the overall economic growth of the regions you are targeting. 

  • Identify sectors with high growth potential for deep tech solutions. 

Investment Climate:  

  • Examine the availability of venture capital and private funding for deep tech startups. 

  • Assess the economic stability of potential markets and the willingness of investors to fund innovative technologies. 

S - Social Factors

Consumer Acceptance:  

  • Gauge public attitudes towards deep tech solutions. 

  • Consider cultural factors that might influence the adoption of certain technologies. 

  • Assess the level of awareness and understanding of deep tech among the target audience. 

Demographic Trends: 

  • Explore demographic shifts that might impact the demand for deep tech products. 

  • Consider the age, education, and income levels of your target audience.  

T - Technological Factors 

Research and Development:   

  • Evaluate the state of technological advancements in the deep tech space. 

  • Monitor ongoing research and development activities in related fields. 

  • Identify potential collaborations with research institutions and tech hubs. 

Innovation Trends: 

  • Stay abreast of emerging technologies and trends within deep tech. 

  • Assess the level of competition and the pace of innovation in your niche. 

  • Consider the impact of rapid technological obsolescence on your market strategy. 

L - Legal Factors 

Intellectual Property Laws:  

  • Understand the legal frameworks related to intellectual property in the deep tech sector. 

  • Secure your innovations through patents and trademarks. 

  • Consider potential legal challenges or disputes in the industry. 

Compliance and Standards:  

  • Ensure compliance with industry standards and regulations. 

  • Anticipate any legal hurdles or challenges related to data privacy and security. 

  • Stay informed about evolving legal requirements in the deep tech space. 

E - Environmental Factors 

Sustainability and Ethical Considerations: 

  • Evaluate how deep tech solutions align with environmental sustainability. 

  • Consider the ethical implications of your technology, especially in areas like AI and biotechnology. 

  • Be aware of environmental regulations that might impact on your operations. 

The PESTLE tool analysis can be invaluable for making informed decisions and developing strategies that account for both opportunities and challenges in the market.  

Is there a more convenient way to capture Deep tech market intelligence?

Leveraging external sources for deep tech market intelligence often proves more convenient and efficient than relying solely on in-house research.  

Third-party market research firms possess specialized expertise in deep tech industries and have access to extensive data sources, including industry reports, patent databases, and academic journals. This expertise and access can significantly enhance the credibility and comprehensiveness of market intelligence.  

Third-party market research firms use Porter's Five Forces framework in deep tech market research which provides a structured analysis of the industry's competitive forces and helps assess the attractiveness of the market.




By incorporating Porter's Five Forces analysis into your deep tech market research, you gain a holistic understanding of the industry's competitive dynamics. This insight can inform strategic decision-making, risk assessment, and market positioning within the rapidly evolving deep tech landscape.  

BIS Research has positioned itself as a prominent global B2B market intelligence and consulting firm. Rather than conducting in-house research, you can utilize BIS Research by investing in market research reports that specialize in deep tech. These reports often provide comprehensive insights into market size, growth projections, competitive analysis, and key trends.   

If you’re not looking for any such investment, InsightMonk is a valuable platform to engage with industry analysts and consulting firms that focus on deep tech. You may explore research journals, academic papers, and industry publications. These sources can offer in-depth analyses of emerging technologies, scientific breakthroughs, and their potential applications.  

InsightMonk also helps in establishing connections with industry experts, analysts, and professionals through networking events or online platforms. Engaging in conversations with individuals deeply involved in the field can offer valuable insights and perspectives.  

Conclusion

Deep tech ventures often involve significant investments and high levels of uncertainty. Market research helps companies mitigate risk by providing insights into market potential, regulatory requirements, and potential technological disruptions. It enables them to make informed decisions and reduce the likelihood of failure.  

At BIS Research, clients have the flexibility to opt among several services, whether it's syndicated research reports, custom research, or expert consultations. They can select these services individually or in combination, tailoring their choices to meet their specific requirements.  

 
 
 

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