Business
Learn Market Segmentation and Survey Methods
Businesses use customer surveys as a tool to gain valuable insights about their customers. To give accurate results, these surveys carry on market research on a specific group of the population whose behaviors and opinions matter to them.
The determination of the sample for their survey depends on what affects the credibility of the research conclusions. In this article, we will discuss all those things that come under a customer survey.
What is Market segmentation?
It is a very important part of marketing strategy that allows businesses to target a specific set of audiences. By splitting the target audiences into smaller homogeneous segments of potential customers, it allows for improving the efficiency of marketing and advertising a business. Different companies use different methods to segment their target audiences so that they can adopt different approaches towards each of those segments.
Market Segmentation – Different Types
Mentioned below are few of the most common types:
- Demographic Segmentation
This method is most extensively used by companies to segregate their market according to defined traits. Some of the frequently used traits in demographics segmentation include gender, race, age, occupation, marital status, income, and education.
- Geographic Area Segmentation
As the name suggest, the market is divided as per geographical segments like state, county,, nation, etc.
- Lifestyle Segmentation
In this method, segmentation is based on the lifestyles choices of potential customers. These choices can include things like type of house, car, income, assets, club membership, etc.
- Behavioral Segmentation
This is more advanced type of segmentation. Here the audiences are segmented as per the patterns or behaviors exhibited by them. Artificial intelligence is also used to identify the behaviors of website users, and their range of choices. It is mostly used for attracting existing customers to do repeat business.
- Business Customer Segmentation
This one is pretty straightforward segmentation, where the nature and size of the company is considered.
Drawbacks of Focus Group Techniques
Focus group interviews are viewed as an effective way to identify the way people think and communicate about a product. This type of group interview involves six to ten participants to express their opinions on a specific issue. Here are some of the disadvantages of this technique in the business.
Impersonal
As group discussions may not be the best way to know about personal experiences about a product/service. In such types of settings, people may be uncomfortable discussing controversial or sensitive issues. Due to this reason, the focus group interview would fail to generate beneficial insights into the business.
Dominating Individuals
The objective of a group discussion technique is to find out what the survey participants think about a product or a service. However, the group may contain outspoken people that could skew the overall outcome of the process.
A single influential participant may cause other participants to modify their personal opinions. Due to this reason, the company may not know the real reactions of the participants. The solution to this condition is to get the assistance of facilitators to ensure that the viewpoint of all participants is heard.
Important Components Of A Customer Survey
Here are some of the key parts that make up a customer survey:
Target Population
It is nearly impossible for a business to cover the entire population to gain valuable insights about their offerings. Also, targeting the entire population isn’t just resource-intensive but also time-consuming. Also, it is not certain whether or not it will yield desired results.
To reduce the complexity, and make the process convenient and effective, it is important to choose a selected set of the population whose views matter to the business a lot.
The target population is the entire group of people pertaining to which information is required. The size of the target population can differ depending on the type of business. The smaller size of the target population makes it convenient to carry out research.
Accessible Population
There is a difference between the target population and the accessible population. The target population is the one that the researcher wishes to study. On the other hand, the accessible population is the actual population that the researcher can study.
Due to budget constraints, time, and geographical location, it isn’t practical for a person to recruit each and every person in the study. Due to this reason, a company employs a subgroup of the entire target group i.e., “accessible population”.
Drawing Conclusions
It is beneficial for organizations to include the target population as a participant to conduct a study. This helps in arriving at conclusions about the whole population. Market research professionals who use an accessible population use only a specific portion of the entire population to generalize the results and apply them again to the entire population.
Sample Populations
Sample populations are used in market research due to the near impossibility of studying the entire group. People who are included in this population more or less replicate the demographics of the target population of that business.
Sampling Methods
Types of methods used to compute the sample population of a business are:
- Probability Sampling
This method uses a mathematical algorithm-based technique to select the target population. Random sampling and cluster sampling are the two commonly used methods to implement this technique.
- Non-Probability Sampling
This type of sampling is done without using randomness. Snowball sampling, Quota sampling Convenience sampling, and Expert sampling are some of the ways to study individuals for specific research.
- Ethnographic Sampling
This strategy uses theoretical sampling, which enables researchers to emerge the research scope that depends upon information that is obtained by the business. Selective sampling is useful when researchers choose specific people or locations to conduct an interview.
Conclusion
For a successful customer survey, a business needs to perform extensive research to determine the target population, sample size calculation, selection of sampling technology and marketing strategy, and more. The above information will surely help improve your knowledge of these areas and create an impactful survey.
Business
Online Accounting Options for Outsourcing – 2024 Guide
As in the modern-day accounting practice with the increasing inventions and changing reporting regulations, complications in different accounting aspects are causing trouble for businesses who cannot afford in-house accounting and financial management, the role of outsourced accounting services has become crucial.
Here are some of the key attributes and advantages of online accountants that can help you understand how such services help you upgrade your business.
Advantage of latest Technology
Nowadays, the world is connected via the Internet and the online accountants are equipped with the latest technologies and software regarding accounts management and finances. To compete in the mounting competition in the industry, firms try their best to keep their client businesses happy and loyal, and in this regard, they acquire the latest and most advanced accounting technologies and tools to facilitate their clients in the best possible ways.
Small and medium-sized enterprises and businesses are taking advantage of the online accountancies to cope with the finances, bookkeeping, and payroll matters to run their proceedings smoothly.
Expert advice and consultancy
Online accounting service providers normally hire highly and experienced personnel that can help their client businesses in the best possible ways. To gain a competitive benefit over the competitors and other companies, service providers try to have teams who are exceptional and are considered as an authority in the industry.
They provide up to the mark financial reports and consultancy services to facilitate client business management to make accurate decisions and strategies for the growth and development of the respective company.
Cash Flow Management
Cash flow management is, undoubtedly, one of the most critical and toughest aspects regarding accounting services, and in this regard, having the assistance of professionals is always considered as beneficial as it helps businesses to keep a close eye on their incomes and expenditures.
To run a business, there are multiple kinds of transactions made for buying and selling materials and products, respectively, and keeping their record is quite a difficult thing. Accounting firms hold the latest technology and the tactics to make this aspect of accounting easier for businesses to keep their progression steady and smooth to achieve the prescribed business goals.
Innovative accounting techniques
To stay competitive in the market, service providers always try to go different and adopt unique and innovative techniques to cope with different functions for the client businesses. As innovation is prevailing in every field of life and accounting is one of the most typical aspects of any business that requires innovative tools and tactics with a greater need, so professional accountants utilize the most recent technologies and tools in this respect.
Usually, the companies are equipped with every kind of the latest tactics and tools that set them apart from the specialists from various cities as they have more exposure to the industry due to access to all required resources in comparison to others.
Cost-effective solutions
One other thing that also makes online accountants the best choice to outsource such services is their cheaper rates and easy accessibility.
Due to stiff competition in the market, service providers cannot charge high to stay competitive in the market as customers are sure to be a move to the cheaper ones. So, if you are the one looking for someone to run your finances, they will be providing you most authentic services at very reasonable prices in comparison to the in-house management that requires too many expenses and resources to run the proceedings perfectly.
Business forecast
Professionals also facilitate their client businesses regarding determining the business position in the future to strategize accordingly to be on the safe side. By evaluating the progression and the trends of respective client’s businesses, they provide them authentic predictions and forecast to develop development policies by keeping future aspects in mind to get the most out of their businesses. Having the latest technological tools and accounting software, they are capable of delivering clients with remarkable services in this regard.
Improvement in Productive Efficiencies
Another thing that also commends outsourcing to the professional online accountants is the difficulties in the accounting management and changing regulations and reporting standards that are crucial to staying complied according to the regulations set by the HMRC and Companies House.
Experts esses from facing legal complications and penalties due to non-compliance and inaccuracies in the prepared tax returns and financial reports but also provide peace of mind to focus on the other critical functions of businesses. They know the needs of financial reports for different industries and can help businesses to go with the right approach, and it can help them improve accuracy and production efficiencies. They keep businesses updated about every legislative move about taxation and business-related acts to keep them complied and prevent them from facing any kind of legal issue.
These are some of the numerous aspects that make online accountants a perfect choice for outsourcing. According to WeAccountax, support of the latest technologies, tools, experience, and exposure with a variety of businesses and industries make accountants a perfect choice to cope with the related issues.
Business
Things to know about American Express Credit Cards
Credit cards are still by far the most dominant way of paying for things in the modern world. No matter what you need to buy or pay for, and wherever you are in the world, you will probably use some kind of card. These little plastic tools are so widespread that most people have more of them than just a single one. Cash is slowly but surely being replaced by all sorts of alternatives and the cards have lead the way for decades. Among the best and most trusted brands of credit cards is American Express. Known far and wide for their quality service and unique design, they are up there with the top companies. In the article before you, we will go over the top things you have to know about American Express and their cards if you mean to use them.
About American Express
Before we mention the cards we have to go over the company itself. The American Express Company (also known as Amex) is a multinational financial company offering various services to its customers and loyal devotees. Founded all the way back in 1850, it has its headquarters in Manhattan, New York City. They have been successful revenue-wise for most of their history, and in 2019 it was $43.556 billion. That same year, their operating income was $8.429 billion and net income $6.759 billion. The majority owner with 18% of shares is Berkshire Hathaway, and the entire conglomerate employees 64,500 people as of the end of 2019. When it comes to products, they offer charge cards, credit cards, traveler’s cheques, and corporate banking. Services include insurance, travel, and finance.
Types of Cards
Now we are getting to the interesting part. American Express offers so many different types of cards that it can be hard to list them all. We will try our best however.
1. Personal Cards
The first type is meant for personal use of average customers in their daily lives, everyday shopping, and similar things that regularly take place. Cash Magnet, Blue Cash Preferred, and Gold varieties are available. The differences include cash back options and membership award and reward points, as well as the annual fee.
2. Business Cards
Business options come in as many as 14 different varieties. They include Business Gold, Blue Business Cash, Blue Business Plus, Business Platinum, Plum, Business Green Rewards, Amazon Business, Amazon Business Prime, Lowe’s Business Rewards, Delta SkyMiles Platinum Business, Delta SkyMiles Gold Business, Delta SkyMiles Reserve Business, Hilton Honors Business, and Marriott Bonvoy Business. The latter batch are exclusive options for those who actively use the services of the corporation’s partners for increased bonuses and offers. The first six cards are generally used in business scenarios and vary in annual fees, cash backs, reward programs, and more.
3. Corporate Cards
For corporate employees, American Express offers four solutions. The first is Corporate Green, best for occasional travelers and core employees. The second is Corporate Gold with many benefits, credits, and perks. The third is Corporate Platinum meant mostly for senior executives and seasoned travelers who want nothing but the best. Finally, the fourth is Business Extra Corporate, with additional benefits and rebates for those who usually fly American Airlines and all of their partners. Again, annual fees and the rest of the perks and differences greatly depend from card to card.
4. Gift Cards
Lastly, the famous company offers the customers gift cards that can either be personal or business. Personal are for orders of vie or more cards, and are available in numerous designs. Amounts range between $25 and $3,000. Business gift options are available within the same margin and they can have special custom messages alongside the gift. Many designs are available for you to choose from and they are best used for ordering for client and customer groups.
Things to Know
Now that you know all there is about the company itself and the different card types they offer, let us examine some of the most important things about their cards as products and service. First of all, you have to learn the lingo surrounding the average usage of cards. Terms like credit limit, minimum payment, late payment, grace period, cash advance, and others have to be clear and you must know exactly what they imply and how they can affect you.
They are actually mini loans that you use to pay for whatever you need in life. They allow you to have a credit history and earn rewards after a certain time of using the. Most common rewards include cashback options where you get some of the spent money right back. Other perks involve free airline miles, bonuses, and points. First-time users must understand that they are not a source of free money without consequences but a tool for responsible adults to have an easier financial situation. Every purchase is paid back in form of monthly payments, which accumulate with interest if left unpaid.
Moving on, as you have just had the pleasure of finding out, there are numerous types of cards to choose from. It is of the utmost importance to pick the right one the first time around. Start by identifying the usual situations and scenarios in which you will be using it. If it is personal, do not browse business cards, and vice versa. Pick and choose according to the most you can get from it in terms of perks and you will have a wonderful experience. Suiting your spending habits or those of your loved ones is paramount to the proper card use. The most important things to value with your first card is no annual fees and low APR (less interest in case of unpaid balance). Lucky for you, American Express offers cards with both of these.
Last but not least, remember to treat the card(s) just like real money (cash). Otherwise you will spend much more than you want or should. Always avoid overspending in order not to get in debt, pay the balance on time and completely, make sure you understand all of the fees and charges, and keep a low credit utilization rate (this is the balance in percentage of the credit limit). It goes without saying that you must keep the card safely stored away and private, and never give them number and other details to anyone.
Business
Significant Facts Science Says About Promotions and Discounts
Every now and then, people ask the question on ‘how big is the promotional products industry?
Well, it can be safe and quite evident to say that it is more than a $ 26.1 billion, according to the 2024 PPAI sales study. This study has been by marketing researchers of relevant insights. However, there are many articles used to promote a product, service or company program through special promotional specials, bonuses, incentives, gifts, prizes, souvenirs and other items, which can be easily printed or decorated. As per PPAI, the top ten industries and buyers who use most of the promotional activities and discounts range from corporate trainings, financial services, health services, not profit organizations, construction businesses, government affiliations, professional associations and car companies.
This article outlines some of the significant facts about promotions and discounts for example, most promotions and discounts are mostly targeted towards professionals like doctors, lawyers, CPA, etc. instead of the customers. Ten main uses for the recognition of the brand awareness or the product can be enhanced by corporate identity, public relations and goodwill, customer loyalty and appreciation, generate sales and referrals, communication of employees and recognition programs which are sponsored by other companies.
Introduction Activities for Promotions and Discounts
The introduction of a new product is mostly done to motivate behaviors through incentives
Programs, through which acquisition for a new customer is, be done easily. However, the impact of successful brands is mainly or always considered a true strategy for the promotion of products like Bmarcoupons. It also works effectively in achieving the marketing objectives. In today’s industry, the millennials, generation X and baby boomers are considered to be main influencers. Online advertising transmission and mobile printing can produce 9 out of 10 customers who remember the branding message and recall. 8 out of 10 customers can remember the messaging and 7 out of 10 remember the ‘Call to action’ motive.
Who remembers what is best for them
The millennial generation remembers social media messages more than any ordinary customer. Direction calls are better than those of any sales pitch calls done to the Xers generation. They can then act on the statements with final instructions towards any discount or promotional activity. Boomers are the best benchmarks for digital channels like website domains or contact information.
Promotional Association International is the only international non-profit organization which takes care of the promotional advertising messages of the products industry. The Union offers adequate training, technology, trade fairs, professional products and services with the legislative support for over 14,400 member companies worldwide. PPAI has also has celebrated 113 years of service in the area of promotional products and of its members, making it one of the oldest professional associations in the United States. The promotional or discount messages advertised for products, must be useful and appreciated by the recipients, or if that it would benefit the customers or the consumer in the same way or the other. Companies however remain preserved and used repeated printed messages multiple times without giving an additional cost to the advertiser.
How it is Being Structured
The whole industry sector for promotions and discounts is being strutted as an advertising consultant develops solutions to marketing problems all over the world with the innovative use of promotional items and tries to make it into a resource for business buyers, sellers and others who want to use their brand.
Awareness and circulation promotional materials are used in exhibitions, staff maintenance, etc. There are more than 23,000 consultancy agencies in this sector. You can easily find the most appropriate one, as per your brand, product or service requirement. Promotional or discount messages can give out incentives to produce, import, convert, print or otherwise produce suppliers. Products which are offered for sale through consultants of promotional products can be one way to get the message across.
It is always better to find a professional association in the field of promotional products to represent the interests of promotional products companies, both members and non-members. According to a research, more than 37,000 US advertising companies offer over 510,000 marketing jobs to make attractive and significant messages regarding promotional sales and discount.
The Marketing Stigma
It has to be backed by advertising, as it is the only part of the promotional mix which is often been considered as an important element in the overall design of the marketing mix. It is high visibility and omnipresence. Promotional messaging and discount offers are also considered as “coordination of all efforts of the seller. The main direction to motivate buying or selling behaviors depends upon to create compelling information and means to facilitate the extent of a property, brand, product or a service. Advertising, promotion or discount offers is often seen as a supportive element to influence behaviors. Most customers are really looking forward for compelling offers. The notice of towards motivation must integrate and coordinate with the rest of the marketing effort, especially towards the product / brand decisions, which can be effective to support a whole buyer and seller strategy. The main elements which are considered towards to make the compelling offer include three basic elements. They are:
- Advertising
- Personal sale
- Sales promotion
The dissemination of information by non-personal means through paid media, whose source is the sponsoring organization. This was the traditional way of selling products. Nowadays, personal sales are the dissemination of information by non-personal means. Methods such as personal contacts, contacts between the public and employees of the sponsoring organization make compelling offers in the Business-to-Business world.
The specification of promotions and discount activities during the campaigns depends mainly on the marketing strategy that can be expressed to create compelling offers, for example, by describing everything related the product, service, its stock or its segment; introduction to a new niche conquered market positions. Marketing, human and technical infrastructures resources, level of communication and provision of information which are valid and can be taken into account by the customer.
Looking from a Manufacturer’s Perspective
The manufacturer can only rely on the great efficiency of advertising campaigns if:
Mainly, first, they are prepared and carried out on the basis of preliminary studies and given the dynamic nature of the market. Second, promotional items reasonably created, memorable and correct to act on a preselected consumer and the public. Thirdly, a sufficiently wide publication of advertising material is provided to the ones which are best for the activity. Fourth, events in different places which are coordinated at different levels at customer interaction
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