Durable goods surveys can be commissioned by a variety of individuals and organizations, depending on what the purpose of the survey is and what information is needed. Durable goods companies: Durable goods companies, such as furniture, home appliances or cars, may commission research to better understand consumer needs and preferences, develop new products or improve existing ones, and evaluate the effectiveness of advertising. Advertising agencies: Advertising agencies can commission surveys of durable goods to assess the effectiveness of advertisements and understand how advertising influences consumers’ purchasing decisions. Governments: Governments can commission a study to better understand markets and make appropriate policy decisions. Research institutes: Research institutes, such as universities and nonprofit organizations, can commission a study to understand markets and related phenomena and communicate this information to a wider audience. Industry organizations: Industry organizations, such as associations of manufacturers or traders, can commission research to better understand markets and take appropriate action.