This is a key step toward formulating your strategies. Although numerous legal and logistical steps are important, most will be weakened if you do not have a good idea of where you are in terms of your product or service.

Sharpen your brand image so you can communicate precisely what you sell or provide—or what you want to buy or use—so that you can communicate clearly. As noted earlier, research of your goods’ or services’ status in your intended market(s) important. Even in Canada or Mexico, popular U.S. products may have a different status and value. A well-known import product is a good example: Russian fish eggs known as caviar.