To run a successful business you need to know all about your potential and existing customers and the marketplace you operate in. Regularly assess who your competitors are, their strengths and weaknesses, who your customers are and what they want, and whether there are any gaps in the market.

• Market research
  Market research is a most valuable tool for all businesses. It's the process of gathering information to help you make informed decisions about the marketing of your business.

• Government statistics
  The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) and various other government agencies provide a number of business or industry related statistics.

• Marketing & advertising
  Marketing is essential for your business survival and growth. It's such an important aspect of operating a successful business that you can't afford not to have at least a working knowledge of the various aspects of it.

• Develop a marketing plan
  A marketing plan assists you to integrate your total marketing effort. It ensures a systematic approach to developing products and services to meet and satisfy your customers' needs.

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