BUS FPX 4024 Assessment 4 Customer Knowledge and the Internet

Student Name

Capella University

BUS-FPX4024 Customer Behavior

Prof. Name

Date

Customer Knowledge and the Internet

Understanding customer needs and how to effectively reach them is crucial for businesses to offer products and services that cater to their target market. The internet has emerged as a powerful tool for marketing, given its widespread usage among consumers. Various online methods such as social media, email advertisements, and web search pop-up ads have proven to be effective in reaching potential customers. Leveraging online platforms in marketing strategies is essential as millions of users rely on the internet for product information (Statista, 2017).

Zillow

Zillow, established in 2006 in Seattle, Washington, stands out as a prominent internet company serving as the leading real estate and rental marketplace in the United States. It endeavors to simplify home shopping for consumers by connecting them with local professionals who cater to their specific needs. Zillow’s array of services encompasses renting, buying, selling, remodeling, financing, and more. With an extensive database featuring over 110 million homes for sale or rent, Zillow goes beyond by providing historical sale prices and estimated current home values and rents through its “Zestimates” feature (Zillow, 2019).

Zillow Website

Setting itself apart from competitors like Realtor.com or independent real estate companies, Zillow boasts a distinct branding represented by a simple yet impactful design—a blue house shape with a slash forming a “Z,” followed by the company name. This branding is prominently featured across the website, including the search function, ensuring high visibility (Zillow, 2019). In contrast, competitors such as Bray and Co lack comprehensive information and noticeable branding on their websites, rendering them less appealing to consumers. Zillow’s targeted advertisements across various online platforms further enhance its visibility compared to competitors (Zillow, 2019).

BUS FPX 4024 Assessment 4 Customer Knowledge and the Internet

Benefits of Website

Zillow’s website offers users a user-friendly, informative, and comprehensive experience. With regularly updated and detailed information, users can easily navigate the site. The website’s design accommodates various users, including those with visual impairments. Additionally, the abundance of detailed images, including street views, provides consumers with a clear visualization of properties, giving Zillow a competitive edge over other real estate websites. Moreover, Zillow’s presence across diverse online platforms ensures continuous visibility, catering not only to home seekers but also to students conducting research and homeowners exploring selling or renting options (Zillow, 2019).

Strategies

Zillow’s website and branding strategies effectively meet consumers’ housing needs. The user-friendly interface and comprehensive information ensure a positive experience, encouraging repeat visits and referrals. By consistently meeting consumer expectations, Zillow fosters positive consumer behaviors and enhances its brand reputation. Its website’s seamless functionality and fulfillment of consumer needs contribute to sustained consumer engagement and increased awareness of its products and services.

References

Advertising & Marketing. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.statista.com/markets/417/topic/479/advertising-marketing/

Zillow. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.zillow.com/corp/About.htm

BUS FPX 4024 Assessment 4 Customer Knowledge and the Internet