Any study whose findings are solely inferred from actual, verifiable empirical evidence is said to be doing empirical research. Both quantitative and qualitative market research techniques can be used to collect this empirical information.
For instance, a study is being done to see if listening to upbeat music while working might foster creativity.
On a group of listeners exposed to upbeat music and another group who are not listening to any music at all, an experiment is done utilizing a music website survey, and the subjects are then monitored. The outcomes of such a study will provide empirical proof of whether or not it fosters creativity.