How and Why does the Media use research?

Details for who it's for, how many people will buy so you know how many to make. Content, finance & funds, competition, distribution methods. USP. Freebies, advertising for funding. Target audience for advertising.
Media research costs alot.
Demographics, social class: A -MP's, Lords, Wealthy upper class. B/C - Middle class C-1 (Proffesional) C-2 (Skilled worker). D/E - Lower class.

Audience profile created for the advertisers. A description of the readership, categories from 'Uncut' magazine
Author - Chris Dicker (Ad Manager)
Year - 2007
Uncut reader profile
Available from IPC.com
Date accessed 7/9/10
Male readership: 86%
Average age: 37
Married/living with partner: 60%
Working full time: 77%
Average income: £29,263
Circulation: 74,067

By looking at the demographics helps the magazine to sell itself. 'Uncut' doesn't show what class they target possibly because it's a music magazine.

psycho graphics -values, what you think is important, how you feel, interests.

Social Media Research by Sean Hargrave 5/8/10
It states that Penderyn Whisky claims that Facebook and Twitter users contribute over 500 responses to each of the questionaires. Another example of using social networking sites to gather information is the lip balm and moisturiser products, the simple VIP club has fans on Twitter and Facebook.