The planning phase is important to the success of focus groups. In this phase, researchers and decision makers must have a clear understanding of the purpose of the study,
a definition of the problem, and specific data requirements.
The purpose of the focus groups ultimately determines whether face-to-face or online focus groups are the most appropriate. Other important factors in the planning phase relate to decisions about who the participants should be, how to select and recruit respondents, and where to have the focus group sessions