Week 4 question 1:

One hybrid method of segmentation that examines both social class and geography is called geodemographic clustering.  Visit the Nielsen website. (http://www.claritas.com/MyBestSegments/Default.jsp?ID=20&menuOption=ziplookup&pageName=ZIP+Code+Lookup)

Click on Zip Code Look-up tab, enter your zip code, and note the results. Then enter another that is different from yours but within driving distance. Describe the segments and their characteristics and answer the following items in your post:

Is your family demographic information similar or different from the Prizm report? Explain.

Explain your findings from the data as it relates to you as a consumer such as:

Does the report represent your buying behavior?

Do the merchants and shops in your areas align with your demographic?

Do you visit the merchants in your area or go out of the area? Why or why not?

Compare and contrast the population median age, income, consumer spending and per household of the two zip codes. 

What are the similarities and differences between the geodemographic clusters?

Week 4 question 2:

As companies look for additional opportunities to market their goods and services in new markets, they may consider transitioning into a new cultural environment.  Even if the firm has done its homework, the transition to a new culture can be challenging. Research a good or service that has successfully transitioned from a single culture to either a subculture or cross culture. Answer the following questions in your post:

What challenges were faced?

How were they overcome? 

What are the differences between both and the similarities?

Why are cultural differences sometimes easy to overlook?

Is the product (good or service) successful in the “new” culture?

Read the article: Inside Subaru’s Zero-Waste Factory. (http://www.takepart.com/article/2013/12/30/inside-subarus-zero-waste-factory)

The auto manufacturer, Subaru of America, has declared its commitment to green manufacturing practices. Their commitment is posted on the top of their website, “Subaru of America is committed to being a leader in environmental initiatives while continuing to reduce our own footprint. Being green isn’t a trend. It’s who we are and what we stand for” (http://www.subaru.com/csr/environment-sustainability.html). In addition, in 2003, Subaru of Indiana Automotive, Inc. became the first automotive assembly facility to be designated as a Backyard Wildlife Habitat by the National Wildlife Federation (http://www.wildlifehc.org/membersdir/subaru-of-indiana-automotive-inc). There are over 800 acres surrounding the manufacturing plant that are home to birds, deer, blue heron, hawks, Canadian geese, ducks, beavers, snapping turtles, and other animals.

In a minimum of 200 words, respond to the following questions:

1. What motivates the company to go “zero-waste’?
2. What makes Subaru a leader oin the environmental initiatives?
3. Did Subaru fulfill the tenets of the 3R’s as discussed in the article? Explain