In Nadezhda Dimova’s article “Influence of Digitalisation on Consumer Behavior in Retail”, she explores how the rapid growth of technology is reshaping consumer behavior in the retail sector. The article provides vital information and analysis of technological progression and how it affects how consumers are interacting with different brands, the experience itself and how purchasing decisions are being made. These factors are taken in consideration both in physical, and online setting. In her article Dimova emphasizes that digitalization is not only a driving force for change, but also a vast reshaping tool that keeps landscaping traditional retail models. (Dimova 2021) As someone with experience in the retail industry and finance, I find Dimova’s thoughts on the topic very relevant. I have witnessed many of these occurrences myself, while working in the industry.
Customer Insight & Digital Environment
Regarding customer insight and the digital environment, Dimova’s article many relevant themes are presented. The article focuses highly on how digitalization enables businesses to better understand customer needs. Dimova also highlights several key points in which digital instruments have improved companies’ abilities to collect, analyze and operate on customer data. This enables businesses to produce more personalized customer experiences, which nowadays is crucial in competitive digital environments.
In her article, Dimova argues that digitalization is essentially changing how consumers are interacting with businesses. It is also argued that companies need to strategically use technology to engage and better understand consumer needs. (Dimova 2021) The core message of the article in my opinion would be exactly this. Businesses and retailers have to embrace different digital tools and strategies to stay competitive and to cater to the needs of customers.
Interesting Insights from the Article
To me, one of the most interesting points in the article is the topic of omnichannel integration. The article highlights how important it is to combine factors from online and offline surroundings. According to Dimova, this creates more seamless experiences across different platforms. The topic of personalization is also extremely fascinating. Digital technology enables data gathering in real time and helps companies offer more personalized services and perks.
The article also mentions the push towards self-service, which I find intriguing. When working in retail and finance, I have noticed the shift as well. Customers are being encouraged towards online services, applications and independence. Some see this as a great thing, but especially for the elderly consumers, the shift hasn’t been pleasant and new operation models would get a lot of criticism. In my opinion, it is essential for the company to cater to everyone’s needs and some sort of hybrid with self – and supported services would be ideal.
Conclusion
Overall, I can attest to the profound impact that technology has had in the ways companies work. As Dimova suggests, the challenge in moving forward will be for companies to continue embracing innovation, while maintaining a customer centric approach. And to add to this, I believe it is also very important for people to be aware of the possible changes in the industry they work in, be adaptable and keep enhancing their digital skills.
References
Dimova, N. 2021. Influence of Digitalisation on Consumer Behavior in Retail. Viitattu 10.9.2024. https://lucit-my.sharepoint.com/:b:/g/personal/paivi_hanni-vaara_lapinamk_fi/ES_0DP4cnFRGumJlIvej-mkBQ_CctenN5fSC_KMXWzFcdg?e=NTPTn0