In other words, a gap in the market is an opportunity to create and introduce something to the market that isn’t available yet. Despite the fact that consumers are interested in having it, it isn’t readily available. It is the difference between supply and demand for that product that determines the ‘gap’. Essentially, it refers to a consumer need that has not yet been addressed by the supply.
The gap in the market is an opportunity for companies to expand their customer base. Filling gaps in the market can lead to market penetration.
The gap in the market factors
A gap in the market has at least one of the following factors.
- It’s a unique idea. Essentially, it is unique in the market; nothing like it exists.
- There is already one. The sales would be significantly boosted by an upgrade or improvement, however.
- Already exists the product. No one has attempted to sell it in a new market, however. The sales of this product would greatly increase if it was introduced to a new market.
A gap in the market is defined by the Macmillan Dictionary as follows:
The opportunity to produce a product that is not yet available, but would be appreciated by consumers.
Finding a gap in the market
Almost everywhere, there is a gap in the market. Discovering one that can be exploited is the key. Identifying potential needs you can meet with your resources and skills.
It is recommended that you meet as many interesting and new people as possible, according to smepals.com. It is also important to expose yourself to as many experiences and ideas as possible.
Extensive exposure to new information allows your brain to come up with new ideas and make creative associations.
According to Smepals.com:
Without meeting people, it is very difficult to identify a gap in the market. Taking on new challenges. Take a chance. Curiousness. Connecting with new people.”
Use as much information as you can like jigsaw pieces in a puzzle. Make it your habit to draw in as much information as you can.”
Is there a gap I should exploit?
Identifying a market gap is the first step in determining whether it can be exploited. Most business opportunities contain four elements, which must all exist simultaneously. There are four key elements, which are:
- This product or service must be in demand, i.e., there must be a need for this product or service. If you found a gap in the market, demand exists.
- It is within your reach to meet this demand.
- Using the means, you can meet the demand.
- It is profitable. There is a way to benefit.
The gap you identified is likely to succeed if you have all four elements. However, if one is missing, be cautious, or find a new partner. In this context, a partner is another person with whom you could do business.
Consider teaming up with someone who knows somebody who does. If you trust the person or company, you may be able to meet the demand.
Be realistic about the gap in the market
Identifying a gap in the market requires being realistic and practical.
Think about an airplane that could go from New York to Sydney at the speed of light. Imagine being able to travel from New York to Sydney in a fraction of a second.
Despite the demand for light-speed travel, we are still centuries away from developing the technology to meet it. Therefore, considering such travel for commercial purposes would be pointless.