An Emerging High-Technology Firm Develops and Sells a Line of Electronic

question 71

Essay

An emerging high-technology firm develops and sells a line of electronic software products and services that enable businesses to engage in business-to-business communications and transactions with suppliers and customers. The firm's products and services are used by retailers such as Wal-Mart, manufacturers like Pillsbury, apparel firms like New Balance Athletic Shoes, and insurance firms and others. The firm needs your assistance in segmenting this vast potential market that includes most types of businesses.
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First, suggest possible bases of segmentation that the high-tech firm might use in isolating potential clusters or segments of customers. Next, provide a set of guidelines that the firm might follow in evaluating whether or not a particular base of segmentation provides an appropriate market and strategic fit for the firm.

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Definitions:

Preventive Actions

Measures taken in advance to eliminate or reduce the likelihood of potential problems or risks in processes or operations.

Corrective Actions

Steps taken to eliminate the causes of existing nonconformities or undesirable situations, with the goal of preventing recurrence.

Yardsticks

Standards or measures used for comparison or evaluation.

Objectives

Specific, measurable goals that an organization or individual aims to achieve within a specific timeframe to drive performance.