Competitive market analysis (CMA) is the first stage in successful search engine marketing campaigns. Detailed search engine research provides a wealth of information about current industry trends and regional competition with regard to specific keywords. Once complete, a comprehensive CMA can be used to help generate more effective search engine marketing portfolios.

Information gathered during a CMA include:
- Local/National Competitors
- Keyword Feasibility
- Industry Trends
- Website Features
- Additional Keywords

Organizations who choose to perform a CMA prior to launching a new search engine marketing campaign will be better positioned for success.