Question: You will only post once for a grade in the Journal. Post a minimum of 250 words, but make sure it is an original post concerning the following:

To better understand the relationship between strategic retailing factors and consumer perceptions, you will conduct a simple observation exercise. Follow these three steps:

Step 1. Make a Product Decision: Identify a service to shop for, and then identify two websites as places to look for your service. For example, you can shop for home security services, maid service, food delivery, pet grooming services, etc. Once you have identified what you are looking for and where you are going to look, visit each website and record your observations of specific strategic factors that might influence your purchasing decision.

Step 2. Make Observations: Visit two service provider websites and record your observations by taking notes on the following topics (NOTE: You do not need to include your observations in your post):

General Accessibility: Is the website easy to find? What is the website layout look like? Is it busy, up-to-date, interactive, user-friendly, etc.? Does website appearance influence your perception of the service? Would you be inclined under normal circumstances to look beyond the initial website page or not?

Appearance and ease of use:

Are the font, colors used, and pictures attractive but also helpful for understanding the service? Are there dropdown menus or tabs with good information that are useful? Is there an appropriate array of choices from which to choose that fits your needs? Is the site easy navigated for you to find the information you need and want?

Service: Are you able to order what you need easily? Is checkout easily accommodated? Are there several methods available to make payment? Are there several ways to contact customer service if you need it? What is your perception of the service quality being offered? Why do you think as you do?

Step 3. Answer the following questions based on your observations:

Checklist: • Identify the service from which you would decide to purchase the service. Discuss why you chose the specific service provider over the competitor.

• Discuss the factors that helped you make the decision to purchase the service from the company you ultimately chose. What are the top three factors that are most important to you in this purchase decision?

• If your decision is not to purchase the item from either company website, explain why not. Identify and discuss the three most significant differences you observed in comparing the two service providers.