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5.3 Target markets

Now that you are familiar with what is involved in market segmentation we will focus on how to apply that information in a market targeting process. This will enable us to position a product in a market segment.

There is a process which is recognised as being useful for selecting a target market. The names given to each step vary slightly with different authors, as does some of the detail they address. However, the process remains essentially the same. When working through the next reading ensure you understand what is meant by 'permission marketing' and how it relates to targeting. Please turn now to the following reading to study the steps in the process, remembering that some sections have already been covered.

In your text

Kotler et al. (2004) Chapter 10, pp. 358-362, 'Market targeting'.

A major criterion in deciding what target marketing strategy to use and which segments to enter is knowing or at least estimating the demand for your products and services by the various segments of the market.

As this area can be confusing, read about the various methods of forecasting now before we discuss them.

In your text

Kotler et al. (2004) Chapter9, pp. 318-336, 'Defining and measuring market demand' and 'Forecasting future demand'.

Time series analysis is quite a complex method of forecasting market potential, based on identifying the factors that influence the demand for certain goods and services.

Activity 5.2

What are some of the factors are that would influence the market potential for shipping cars from Japan to Australia ?

Statistical demand analysis tends to be rather complex although computer software programs are assisting users analyse factors such as prices, income, population and promotion. In consumer marketing, surveys of buyers' intentions are commonly used, perhaps too often and unwisely.

Consider this

Would this method be appropriate for forecasting the demand for port services? Why or why not?

The test-market method is another method used to estimate sales potential, but the setup costs are particularly expensive for introducing new services. However, once they are set up, services can be modified to meet market needs more accurately at little further expense.

Composites of sales-force opinions and expert opinion are quite straightforward methods of forecasting, and reasonably accurate despite the appearance of lacking rigour.

Consider this

Would you rely on them to estimate sales potential of your port services? Would you use them as one of your methods?

The point, of course, is not to be dependent on any one method.

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