Author: Bob Phibbs

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BrainTruest Query: Mobile “C.L.A.M.P.” – The Great Convergence

Fueled by the unprecedented power and portability of today’s smartphones, we are seeing a rapid evolution of a number of major disciplines, one that can be called “The Great Convergence.” The key disciplines involved in this convergence have a convenient acronym: C.L.A.M.P. What do you think of the C.L.A.M.P. theory expressed in this article?

BrainTrust Query: Consumers Trust Strangers Over Store Associates

A survey late last year by Cisco Systems asked 1,000 U.S. consumers to rank their top three influencers in the buying process and who helped them buy. Sixty-eight percent said online reviews were one of their top three influencers whereas only 13 percent indicated store associates. Are online reviews undermining consumers’ trust in store associates?

BrainTrust Query: Seven Reasons Retailers Shouldn’t Use Coupons

One of the things Bob Phibbs (The Retail Doctor) typically does as a retail consultant when he takes on a new client is to discontinue discount marketing programs. He presents seven reasons he believes offering coupons to people who don’t know you shouldn’t be used for your marketing. What is your opinion on the effectiveness of coupons for retailers?