Which term refers to testing a new product with a sample of customers before full launch?

Which term refers to testing a new product with a sample of customers before full launch?

• A. Pilot run
• B. Soft launch
• C. Test marketing
• D. Market testing

Answer: (C)

Testing a new product with a sample of customers before a full launch is test marketing. This approach means introducing the product in a small, representative market to observe real consumer reactions, estimate likely demand, and test how the pricing, promotions, and distribution work in practice. The goal is to collect actionable feedback and sales data so adjustments can be made before a nationwide rollout. A pilot run focuses on the production process and feasibility rather than customer response. A soft launch releases to a limited group to check operations and acceptance, but it isn’t primarily designed to quantify market demand across channels. Market testing is a broader term, but the specific practice of testing with customers in a limited market to guide a full launch is test marketing.

Testing a new product with a sample of customers before a full launch is test marketing. This approach means introducing the product in a small, representative market to observe real consumer reactions, estimate likely demand, and test how the pricing, promotions, and distribution work in practice. The goal is to collect actionable feedback and sales data so adjustments can be made before a nationwide rollout. A pilot run focuses on the production process and feasibility rather than customer response. A soft launch releases to a limited group to check operations and acceptance, but it isn’t primarily designed to quantify market demand across channels. Market testing is a broader term, but the specific practice of testing with customers in a limited market to guide a full launch is test marketing.