focus group

Group discussion held in a small, specially selected group, often to identify organizational problems or for market research purposes. The group usually comprises fewer than 15 participants and its members are selected for their relevance to the discussion topic. Discussions focus on a limited subject area and are led by a moderator whose task is to facilitate the discussion. The discussions may be recorded in video or audio and may take place over a period over several months. Focus groups have become increasingly popular in politics for gauging public opinion.