Process by which individuals and groups obtain what they need and want through creating and exchanging products and value with others.
More simply: Marketing is the delivery of customer satisfaction at a profit.
Core Marketing Concepts
What Motivates a Consumer to Take Action?
Needs - state of felt deprivation for basic items such as food and clothing and complex needs such as for belonging. i.e. I am thirsty
Wants - form that a human need takes as shaped by culture and individual personality. i.e. I want a Coca-Cola.
Demands - human wants backed by buying power. i.e. I have money to buy a Coca-Cola.
What Will Satisfy Consumer’s Needs and Wants?
Products - anything that can be offered to a market for attention, acquisition, use or consumption and that might satisfy a need or want.
Examples: persons, places, organizations, activities, and ideas.
How Do Consumers Choose Choose Among Products and Services?
Customer Value - benefit that the customer gains from owning and using a product compared to the cost of obtaining the product.
Customer Satisfaction - depends on the product’s perceived performance in delivering value relative to a buyer’s expectations. Linked to Quality and Total Quality Management (TQM).
How do Consumers Obtain Products and Services?
Exchanges - act of obtaining a desired object from someone by offering something in return.
Transactions - trade of values between parties. Usually involves money and a response.
Relationships - building long-term relationships with consumers, distributors, dealers, and suppliers.