The Connected Customer The Changing Nature of Consumer and Business Markets [Paperback]

In todays connected consumer environment, customers are better informed and harder to please, but they also leave a more visible evidence trail in the form of improved databases and customer information. Consumers are increasingly interconnected through various sorts of social networks, a trend that is facilitated by recent advances in electronic media and telecommunication (i.e., MySpace, Facebook, Twitter and Cyworld). Consumers are also increasingly connected with brands and seek to play a more participative role in their relationship with companies, stimulating companies to reconsider how to connect with consumers. 

This book consists of a collection of chapters by thought-leaders in the field of marketing and beyond that deals with the rich facets of connectivity. This edited volume is a great source of research ideas and fresh theory building for academics and students in marketing and related fields who wish to understand this exciting field. It will be a source of inspiration for practitioners who are eager to take up the challenge and adapt their marketing strategies to the changing nature of consumer and business markets.

Preface.  Introduction.  Part 1. Connectivity and the New Reality of Markets C. Van den Bulte, Opportunities and Challenges in Studying Customer Networks.  C.M. Henderson, R.W. Palmatier, Understanding the Relational Ecosystem in a Connected World. S. Wuyts, Connectivity, Control, and Constraint in Business Markets.  Part 2. Leveraging Vertical Connectivity with Channel Partners and Brands  N. Camacho, V. Landsman, S. Stremersch, The Connected Patient. B. Shiv, Is Mr. Spock a Good Candidate for Being a Connected Customer? The Role of Emol(