# Alterlab Market Research > Generates comprehensive market research reports (50+ pages) in the style of top consulting firms (McKinsey, BCG, Gartner), with professional LaTeX formatting, extensive visuals via scientific-schematics and generate-image, data gathering through research-lookup, and multi-framework strategic analysis (Porter Five Forces, PESTLE, SWOT, TAM/SAM/SOM, BCG Matrix). Use when producing a market analysis, competitive landscape, industry report, market-sizing study, or consulting-style strategic deliverable. NOT for a single focused, source-cited research question with no report/frameworks (use alterlab-deep-research) or for pulling raw financial data points from an API (use alterlab-alpha-vantage). Part of the AlterLab Academic Skills suite. - Skill: `alterlab-ieu/alterlab-market-research` (Agent Skill, multi-file: 8 files) - Install (CLI): `npx skillmds@latest add alterlab-ieu/alterlab-market-research` - Raw SKILL.md: https://api.skillmd.com/api/skills/alterlab-ieu/alterlab-market-research/raw - Safety review: pending (external: skill-scanner PASS, skillspector PASS) - Works with: Claude Code, Claude.ai, OpenAI Codex - Category: Docs & Writing - License: MIT - Author: AlterLab-IEU (https://skillmd.com/u/alterlab-ieu) - Updated: 2026-09-08 - Page: https://skillmd.com/skills/alterlab-ieu/alterlab-market-research --- # Market Research Reports ## Overview Market research reports are comprehensive strategic documents that analyze industries, markets, and competitive landscapes to inform business decisions, investment strategies, and strategic planning. This skill generates **professional-grade reports of 50+ pages** with extensive visual content, modeled after deliverables from top consulting firms like McKinsey, BCG, Bain, Gartner, and Forrester. **Key Features:** - **Comprehensive length**: Reports are designed to be 50+ pages with no token constraints - **Visual-rich content**: 5-6 key diagrams generated at start (more added as needed during writing) - **Data-driven analysis**: Deep integration with research-lookup for market data - **Multi-framework approach**: Porter's Five Forces, PESTLE, SWOT, BCG Matrix, TAM/SAM/SOM - **Professional formatting**: Consulting-firm quality typography, colors, and layout - **Actionable recommendations**: Strategic focus with implementation roadmaps **Output Format:** LaTeX with professional styling, compiled to PDF. Uses the `market_research.sty` style package for consistent, professional formatting. ## When to Use This Skill This skill should be used when: - Creating comprehensive market analysis for investment decisions - Developing industry reports for strategic planning - Analyzing competitive landscapes and market dynamics - Conducting market sizing exercises (TAM/SAM/SOM) - Evaluating market entry opportunities - Preparing due diligence materials for M&A activities - Creating thought leadership content for industry positioning - Developing go-to-market strategy documentation - Analyzing regulatory and policy impacts on markets - Building business cases for new product launches ## Visual Enhancement Well-chosen visuals make a market research report far easier to navigate. Add figures where they clarify market structure, scale, competition, or risk — not as a quota. A handful of strong, accurate visuals beats a wall of decorative ones. ### Visual Generation Tools If a diagram or figure would aid comprehension, invoke the **alterlab-scientific-schematics** skill (diagrams/schematics) or the **alterlab-generate-image** skill (images). Figures are optional — add them only where they improve clarity. **Diagrams/schematics work well for:** - Market growth trajectory charts - TAM/SAM/SOM breakdown diagrams (concentric circles) - Porter's Five Forces diagrams - Competitive positioning matrices - Market segmentation charts - Value chain diagrams - Technology roadmaps - Risk heatmaps - Strategic prioritization matrices - Implementation timelines/Gantt charts - SWOT analysis diagrams - BCG Growth-Share matrices **Generated images work well for:** - Executive summary hero infographics - Industry/sector conceptual illustrations - Abstract technology visualizations - Cover page imagery For ready-to-use generation prompts mapped to each section, see `references/visual_generation_guide.md`. --- ## Report Structure (50+ Pages) The standard structure is front matter, eleven core chapters, and back matter. The per-page targets and framework assignments below drive the 50+ page length; the chosen frameworks (Porter, PESTLE, SWOT, TAM/SAM/SOM, BCG) are what distinguish this from a generic write-up. | # | Section | Pages | Primary frameworks | |---|---------|-------|--------------------| | — | Front matter (cover, ToC/LoF/LoT, executive summary) | ~5 | Market snapshot, investment thesis | | 1 | Market Overview & Definition | 4-5 | Ecosystem / value-chain mapping | | 2 | Market Size & Growth | 6-8 | **TAM/SAM/SOM**, CAGR | | 3 | Industry Drivers & Trends | 5-6 | **PESTLE**, driver impact matrix | | 4 | Competitive Landscape | 6-8 | **Porter's Five Forces**, positioning matrix, strategic groups | | 5 | Customer Analysis & Segmentation | 4-5 | Segmentation matrix, customer journey | | 6 | Technology & Innovation Landscape | 4-5 | TRL, hype cycle, roadmap | | 7 | Regulatory & Policy Environment | 3-4 | Regulatory timeline | | 8 | Risk Analysis | 3-4 | Risk heatmap, mitigation matrix | | 9 | Strategic Opportunities & Recommendations | 4-5 | Opportunity / priority matrices, **SWOT** | | 10 | Implementation Roadmap | 3-4 | Phased Gantt, milestone tracker | | 11 | Investment Thesis & Financial Projections | 3-4 | Scenario analysis, projections | | — | Back matter (methodology, data tables, company profiles, bibliography) | ~5 | — | For the full section-by-section content requirements, required visuals, and data points per chapter, load `references/report_structure_guide.md`. For market-data sourcing in Chapter 2 (and throughout), use the `research-lookup` skill to pull market-research reports (Gartner, Forrester, IDC), industry-association data, government statistics, and company financials — cite each figure. --- ## Workflow ### Phase 1: Research & Data Gathering **Step 1: Define Scope** - Clarify market definition - Set geographic boundaries - Determine time horizon - Identify key questions to answer **Step 2: Conduct Deep Research** Use the companion `research-lookup` skill extensively to gather market data. Run focused queries across each dimension of the analysis, for example: - **Market size and growth**: "What is the current market size and projected growth rate for [MARKET] industry? Include TAM, SAM, SOM estimates and CAGR projections" - **Competitive landscape**: "Who are the top 10 competitors in the [MARKET] market? What is their market share and competitive positioning?" - **Industry trends**: "What are the major trends and growth drivers in the [MARKET] industry for 2024-2030?" - **Regulatory environment**: "What are the key regulations and policy changes affecting the [MARKET] industry?" **Step 3: Data Organization** - Create `sources/` folder with research notes - Organize data by section - Identify data gaps - Conduct follow-up research as needed ### Phase 2: Analysis & Framework Application **Step 4: Apply Analysis Frameworks** For each framework, conduct structured analysis: - **Market Sizing**: TAM → SAM → SOM with clear assumptions - **Porter's Five Forces**: Rate each force High/Medium/Low with rationale - **PESTLE**: Analyze each dimension with trends and impacts - **SWOT**: Internal strengths/weaknesses, external opportunities/threats - **Competitive Positioning**: Define axes, plot competitors **Step 5: Develop Insights** - Synthesize findings into key insights - Identify strategic implications - Develop recommendations - Prioritize opportunities ### Phase 3: Visuals **Step 6: Plan and Generate Visuals** Decide which figures genuinely aid the report, then generate them. Useful candidates and the kind of content each conveys: - **Market growth trajectory** — bar chart of market size 2020–2034, historical vs. projected bars, with a CAGR annotation. - **TAM/SAM/SOM breakdown** — concentric circles for Total / Serviceable Addressable / Serviceable Obtainable Market, each labeled. - **Porter's Five Forces** — center "Competitive Rivalry" box with the four surrounding forces, color-coded by rating. - **Competitive positioning matrix** — 2x2 with axes such as Market Focus (Niche↔Broad) and Solution Approach (Product↔Platform), competitors plotted as sized circles. - **Risk heatmap** — Impact vs. Probability grid with risks plotted and color-graded. - **Executive summary infographic** — a hero image synthesizing the report's headline metrics. If a diagram or figure would aid comprehension, invoke the **alterlab-scientific-schematics** skill (diagrams/schematics) or the **alterlab-generate-image** skill (images). Figures are optional — add them only where they improve clarity. ### Phase 4: Report Writing **Step 7: Initialize Project Structure** Create the standard project structure: ``` writing_outputs/YYYYMMDD_HHMMSS_market_report_[topic]/ ├── progress.md ├── drafts/ │ └── v1_market_report.tex ├── references/ │ └── references.bib ├── figures/ │ └── [all generated visuals] ├── sources/ │ └── [research notes] └── final/ ``` **Step 8: Write Report Using Template** Use the `market_report_template.tex` as a starting point. Write each section following the structure guide, ensuring: - **Comprehensive coverage**: Every subsection addressed - **Data-driven content**: Claims supported by research - **Visual integration**: Reference all generated figures - **Professional tone**: Consulting-style writing - **No token constraints**: Write fully, don't abbreviate **Writing Guidelines:** - Use active voice where possible - Lead with insights, support with data - Use numbered lists for recommendations - Include data sources for all statistics - Create smooth transitions between sections ### Phase 5: Compilation & Review **Step 9: Compile LaTeX** ```bash cd writing_outputs/[project_folder]/drafts/ xelatex v1_market_report.tex bibtex v1_market_report xelatex v1_market_report.tex xelatex v1_market_report.tex ``` **Step 10: Quality Review** Run the full **Checklist: 50+ Page Validation** (below) covering structure, visuals, content quality, and technical correctness before declaring the report done. **Step 11: Peer Review** Use the peer-review skill to evaluate the report: - Assess comprehensiveness - Verify data accuracy - Check logical flow - Evaluate recommendation quality --- ## Quality Standards Summing the per-section page targets in the Report Structure table yields ~43 pages minimum and ~66 at target — comfortably clearing the 50+ page bar. If a draft falls short, expand appendix data tables, company profiles, and regional breakdowns rather than padding prose. ### Visual Quality Requirements - **Resolution**: All images at 300 DPI minimum - **Format**: PNG for raster, PDF for vector - **Accessibility**: Colorblind-friendly palettes - **Consistency**: Same color scheme throughout - **Labeling**: All axes, legends, and data points labeled - **Source Attribution**: Sources cited in figure captions ### Data Quality Requirements - **Currency**: Data no older than 2 years (prefer current year) - **Sourcing**: All statistics attributed to specific sources - **Validation**: Cross-reference multiple sources when possible - **Assumptions**: All projections state underlying assumptions - **Limitations**: Acknowledge data limitations and gaps ### Writing Quality Requirements - **Objectivity**: Present balanced analysis, acknowledge uncertainties - **Clarity**: Avoid jargon, define technical terms - **Precision**: Use specific numbers over vague qualifiers - **Structure**: Clear headings, logical flow, smooth transitions - **Actionability**: Recommendations are specific and implementable --- ## LaTeX Formatting ### Using the Style Package The `market_research.sty` package provides professional formatting. Include it in your document: ```latex \documentclass[11pt,letterpaper]{report} \usepackage{market_research} ``` ### Box Environments Use colored boxes to highlight key content: ```latex % Key insight box (blue) \begin{keyinsightbox}[Key Finding] The market is projected to grow at 15.3% CAGR through 2030. \end{keyinsightbox} % Market data box (green) \begin{marketdatabox}[Market Snapshot] \begin{itemize} \item Market Size (2024): \$45.2B \item Projected Size (2030): \$98.7B \item CAGR: 15.3% \end{itemize} \end{marketdatabox} % Risk box (orange/warning) \begin{riskbox}[Critical Risk] Regulatory changes could impact 40% of market participants. \end{riskbox} % Recommendation box (purple) \begin{recommendationbox}[Strategic Recommendation] Prioritize market entry in the Asia-Pacific region. \end{recommendationbox} % Callout box (gray) \begin{calloutbox}[Definition] TAM (Total Addressable Market) represents the total revenue opportunity. \end{calloutbox} ``` ### Figure Formatting ```latex \begin{figure}[htbp] \centering \includegraphics[width=0.9\textwidth]{../figures/market_growth.png} \caption{Market Growth Trajectory (2020-2030). Source: Industry analysis, company data.} \label{fig:market_growth} \end{figure} ``` ### Table Formatting ```latex \begin{table}[htbp] \centering \caption{Market Size by Region (2024)} \begin{tabular}{@{}lrrr@{}} \toprule \textbf{Region} & \textbf{Size (USD)} & \textbf{Share} & \textbf{CAGR} \\ \midrule North America & \$18.2B & 40.3\% & 12.5\% \\ \rowcolor{tablealt} Europe & \$12.1B & 26.8\% & 14.2\% \\ Asia-Pacific & \$10.5B & 23.2\% & 18.7\% \\ \rowcolor{tablealt} Rest of World & \$4.4B & 9.7\% & 11.3\% \\ \midrule \textbf{Total} & \textbf{\$45.2B} & \textbf{100\%} & \textbf{15.3\%} \\ \bottomrule \end{tabular} \label{tab:market_by_region} \end{table} ``` For complete formatting reference, see `assets/FORMATTING_GUIDE.md`. --- ## Integration with Other Skills This skill orchestrates several sibling skills: - **alterlab-research-lookup**: gather market data, statistics, and competitive intelligence - **alterlab-scientific-schematics**: generate diagrams, charts, matrices, and timelines - **alterlab-generate-image**: create infographics and conceptual illustrations - **alterlab-peer-review**: evaluate report quality and completeness - **alterlab-citation-mgmt**: manage the BibTeX bibliography Route elsewhere when the ask is narrower: a single source-cited research question → **alterlab-deep-research**; raw financial fundamentals from an API → **alterlab-alpha-vantage**. --- ## Example Prompts ### Market Overview Section ``` Write a comprehensive market overview section for the [Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure] market. Include: - Clear market definition and scope - Industry ecosystem with key stakeholders - Value chain analysis - Historical evolution of the market - Current market dynamics Generate 2 supporting visuals using scientific-schematics. ``` ### Competitive Landscape Section ``` Analyze the competitive landscape for the [Cloud Computing] market. Include: - Porter's Five Forces analysis with High/Medium/Low ratings - Top 10 competitors with market share - Competitive positioning matrix - Strategic group mapping - Barriers to entry analysis Generate 4 supporting visuals including Porter's Five Forces diagram and positioning matrix. ``` ### Strategic Recommendations Section ``` Develop strategic recommendations for entering the [Renewable Energy Storage] market. Include: - 5-7 prioritized recommendations - Opportunity sizing for each - Implementation considerations - Risk factors and mitigations - Success criteria Generate 3 supporting visuals including opportunity matrix and priority framework. ``` --- ## Checklist: 50+ Page Validation Before finalizing the report, verify: ### Structure Completeness - [ ] Cover page with hero visual - [ ] Table of contents (auto-generated) - [ ] List of figures (auto-generated) - [ ] List of tables (auto-generated) - [ ] Executive summary (2-3 pages) - [ ] All 11 core chapters present - [ ] Appendix A: Methodology - [ ] Appendix B: Data tables - [ ] Appendix C: Company profiles - [ ] References/Bibliography ### Visual Completeness (Core 5-6) - [ ] Market growth trajectory chart (Priority 1) - [ ] TAM/SAM/SOM diagram (Priority 2) - [ ] Porter's Five Forces (Priority 3) - [ ] Competitive positioning matrix (Priority 4) - [ ] Risk heatmap (Priority 5) - [ ] Executive summary infographic (Priority 6, optional) ### Additional Visuals (Generate as Needed) - [ ] Market ecosystem diagram - [ ] Regional breakdown chart - [ ] Segment growth chart - [ ] Industry trends/PESTLE diagram - [ ] Market share chart - [ ] Customer segmentation chart - [ ] Technology roadmap - [ ] Regulatory timeline - [ ] Opportunity matrix - [ ] Implementation timeline - [ ] Financial projections chart - [ ] Other section-specific visuals ### Content Quality - [ ] All statistics have sources - [ ] Projections include assumptions - [ ] Frameworks properly applied - [ ] Recommendations are actionable - [ ] Writing is professional quality - [ ] No placeholder or incomplete sections ### Technical Quality - [ ] PDF compiles without errors - [ ] All figures render correctly - [ ] Cross-references work - [ ] Bibliography complete - [ ] Page count exceeds 50 --- ## Resources ### Reference Files Load these files for detailed guidance: - **`references/report_structure_guide.md`**: Detailed section-by-section content requirements - **`references/visual_generation_guide.md`**: Complete prompts for generating all visual types - **`references/data_analysis_patterns.md`**: Templates for Porter's, PESTLE, SWOT, etc. ### Assets - **`assets/market_research.sty`**: LaTeX style package - **`assets/market_report_template.tex`**: Complete LaTeX template - **`assets/FORMATTING_GUIDE.md`**: Quick reference for box environments and styling --- ## Troubleshooting ### Common Issues **Problem**: Report is under 50 pages - **Solution**: Expand data tables in appendices, add more detailed company profiles, include additional regional breakdowns **Problem**: Visuals not rendering - **Solution**: Check file paths in LaTeX, ensure images are in figures/ folder, verify file extensions **Problem**: Bibliography missing entries - **Solution**: Run bibtex after first xelatex pass, check .bib file for syntax errors **Problem**: Table/figure overflow - **Solution**: Use `\resizebox` or `adjustbox` package, reduce image width percentage **Problem**: Poor visual quality from generation - **Solution**: Pass `--doc-type report` for the report quality threshold, and `--iterations 2` (the scientific-schematics max) for an extra refinement pass --- Use this skill to create comprehensive, visually-rich market research reports that rival top consulting firm deliverables. The combination of deep research, structured frameworks, and extensive visualization produces documents that inform strategic decisions and demonstrate analytical rigor.