Define 'market research' in design and manufacture.

Market research in design and manufacture involves the process of gathering information about consumer needs and preferences to guide product development. This understanding of the target market is essential for designers and manufacturers as it informs decisions about the features, aesthetics, and functionality of a product. By identifying what consumers desire and how they behave, businesses can create products that better meet those needs, increasing the likelihood of success in the marketplace. This foundational step lays the groundwork for effective design and ensures that the end product aligns with market demands.

The other choices, while related to aspects of product development and marketing, do not encapsulate the broad and essential role that market research plays in understanding consumer psychology and guiding design decisions based on those insights. Therefore, option A accurately describes market research's purpose and significance in the context of design and manufacture.