Semester Project Assignment #3 – Competitor Analysis

Topic:  Electronic Waste (E-Waste) Management

Objective:
In this assignment, you'll analyze the competitive landscape surrounding your issue by identifying and evaluating others who are also trying to reach your target audience. These competitors may be working on the same issue (direct competitors) or on a different topic but still seeking your audience’s attention (indirect competitors).

Purpose:
By analyzing what others are doing to influence your target audience, you’ll gain insight into how to position your own message more effectively—identifying what works, what doesn’t, and what opportunities you can take advantage of.

Instructions:

Write a 1–2 page analysis that includes the following:

1. Direct Competitors

These are people, organizations, companies, or campaigns promoting the same or a very similar message as yours.

Requirements:

• Identify at least two specific, real-world examples (e.g., a named organization, campaign, or individual).
• Briefly describe:
  
  • Who they are (e.g., Greenpeace, @sustainablychic on Instagram, the “Meatless Monday” campaign).
  • What their message is and how it aligns with yours.
  • Who their target audience is—is it the same as yours, or different?
  • What strategies they use (platforms, tone, imagery, language).
  • What they do well.
  • What they might be missing—where is there space for you to fill a gap?

Helpful Questions:

• How persuasive or effective is their approach?
• What kinds of content do they post or share?
• Do they use influencers, emotional appeals, facts and stats, or storytelling?

2. Indirect Competitors

These are individuals or organizations who are not focused on your issue, but who are competing for your audience’s time, attention, or trust. Their message may distract from yours or offer alternative solutions to the same underlying concerns.

Requirements:

• Identify at least one or two real-world examples of indirect competitors (e.g., a self-help podcast, a lifestyle brand, a mental wellness app).
• Explain:
  
  • Who they are and what message or service they offer.
  • Why your audience is drawn to them.
  • How their content or message might distract or compete with your own.
  • What you can learn from them—do they engage the audience well? What techniques could you adapt?

Helpful Questions:

• Is your audience already following or engaging with them?
• What needs or desires are they fulfilling for your audience?

Reminders:

• Use real, named examples—don’t speak in general terms like “some companies” or “a lot of people.” Be specific and back up your claims.
• Focus on analysis, not just description. You’re not just listing competitors—you’re explaining why they matter and what you can learn from them.
• Consider adding screenshots, quotes, or data if they help support your points (optional but encouraged).