If it were possible to track and analyze the behavioral patterns of a partner, which could give you a clue as to whether or not they were faithful, would you?
If it were possible to track and analyze the behavioral patterns of a child, to determine their most successful career path, would you?
If it were possible to track and analyze the behavioral patterns of an employee, to determine if they were honest and ethical, would you?
If it were possible to track and analyze the behavioral patterns of a customer, to determine how to increase their spending, would you?
Based on an article posted in USAToday, retailers are doing just that. Retail consultant Kevin Sterneckert says that's "exactly what so many retailers are doing today" so they can market to people in the different "life stages." Growing pressure to improve profit margins means retailers' decisions must get results. Stores and their suppliers are constantly analyzing shopping patterns through store loyalty cards, credit cards and security cameras.
But is this right?
When an investment is made, returns are expected. In personal relationships, people share emotions and their physical beings with the expectation of love and commitment, generally speaking. If behavioral patterns emerged giving indication that were contrary to what was being said, I think, most people would use it as an opportunity to verify the solidity of their relationship.
Retailers are doing the same thing to get their customers’ loot. Gotta love it.
http://www.usatoday.com/money/industries/retail/story/2012-03-01/retailers-analyze-psychology-of-shopping/53323984/1
