Many companies are faced with a choice: should they hire a classic strategy consultancy or a pure market research institute? Both approaches have their justification, but when viewed in isolation they often have their limits. Undoubtedly, a high level of strategic competence is crucial for targeted advice. But without deep-rooted, self-conducted and tailored market research, there is a risk that recommendations will be based on industry benchmarks or theoretical models that do not fully capture the specific reality of your market and customers. Decisions may then be based on assumptions instead of valid data. Market research companies provide valuable data and market analysis. But their work often ends with the presentation of the results. There is no decisive translation of this database into concrete, strategic decisions and recommendations for action for your business model or your marketing strategies. “Data graveyards” are created with no direct strategic benefit. The solution lies in intelligently linking both worlds. Feature Pure market research Market research + consulting (DTO approach) Pure strategy consulting Focus Data collection, analysis, reporting Data -> Insights -> Strategy -> Action Strategy development, process optimization, transformation Basis primary/secondary data Tailored primary/secondary data + industry expertise Industry knowledge, benchmarks, models, possibly purchased data Result Data reports, market analyzes Actionable insights, concrete recommendations for action, strategy adjustment Strategy concepts, roadmaps, organizational models Customer centricity High (for customer research) Very high (integration of customer/market view into strategy) Medium to high (depending on project focus) Risk Data is not used strategically Low (through integrated approach) Recommendations may not match market/customer reality Ideal for... Targeted information needs, market observation Well-founded strategic decisions, sustainable competitive advantages Large transformation projects, pure strategy questions