Final answer:
Conducting research to determine why consumers visit Starbucks is an example of applied business research, not basic business research, and the notion that it is basic research is false.
Step-by-step explanation:
Conducting research to determine why consumers visit Starbucks is an example of applied business research, rather than basic business research. Therefore, the statement is false. Basic research is focused on gaining knowledge for the sake of knowledge, often without immediate practical applications in mind.
This might involve understanding the behaviors and patterns of consumers in general. Applied business research, on the other hand, is aimed at solving specific, practical questions that can inform business decisions, such as developing a marketing strategy or improving customer service.
Marketing research often includes surveys, interviews, observations, and other methods specifically tailored to understanding consumer behavior related to a product or service. For instance, if a university wanted to improve the dining experience on campus, they might observe and analyze how students interact with the seating arrangements in on-campus restaurants.
Similarly, if a major food manufacturer is trying to understand regional preferences for their products, they may conduct a feasibility study to aid in making data-driven decisions.
It's important to note that while surveys can be part of both basic and applied research, the former seeks to expand general knowledge, while the latter seeks to apply that knowledge to a specific problem or question within a business context.
Experiments and studies, like those comparing a new laundry detergent to leading competitors, are tools that enable businesses to make informed decisions and drive their strategies.