The Choice of Happiness

Are you happy?

This question is loaded with back story. It can mean so many different things depending on the questioner, the context, and even the tone in which it’s asked. When it comes to the choices and decisions we have thrust upon us on a daily basis, the level of happiness we receive correlates to the choice we make. In theory, the more choice you have, the better chance for happiness you receive.

When it comes to choosing what to have for breakfast here in Canada, our selection is not as plentiful as our brethren to the south. Sure there’s always bacon and eggs, but what of the Count Chocula, the Honey Smacks, or the Smorez?

Today’s blog is going to talk about the research framework behind the choice discrepancy of cereal selection in Canada.

Everyday we’re faced with choices to make.

For the project, there will be two main thoughts when accumulating the data needed. The first is to utilize reports and statistics acquired from reputable databases like Statistics Canada or EBSCOhost. The second is gathering data first hand through the employment of surveys. By gathering information through a variety of sources, the stronger an argument one can make.

The most hands on approach to gathering research first hand are through surveys. By sampling a small portion of the population, we can speculate different things through the use of various demographical processes. These surveys will help determine if the brand or product has a viable chance of surviving in a new market. Determining the demand based on demographics will help a company know how and where to reach their target markets.

Databases hold a plethora of knowledge and facts waiting to be expedited and used to benefit the consumer. By knowing how much families spend per year on household necessities (roughly $8000 for 2012) or how much market share Kellogg’s owns (34.3%), we can help to determine numerous different aspects of the company and its plans for the future.

Research is the key. It can help turn a bad decision into a good one. By determining if the Canadian cereal market can withstand more brands before they’re introduced will save the company time and money.

I for one believe that more options we have to choose from directly improve our disposition. The freedom of choice is a powerful thing. You chose to read this, and I hope that was a good one.