The Buyer Decision Process

The consumer passes through five stages: Problem recognition, information search, evaluation of alternatives, purchase decision, post purchase behavior. We can show the buying decision process though the following model.
>Problem Recognition
>Information Search
>Evaluation of Alternatives
>Purchase Decision
>Post Purchase Behavior
Now these stages are described below:
• Problem Recognition: The first stage of the buying process in which someone in the company recognizes a problem or need that can be met by acquiring a good or a service.
• Information Search: The second stage of the buyer decision process in which the consumer is aroused to search for more information, the consumer may simply have heightened attention or may go into active information search.
• Evaluation of Alternatives: The third stage of the buyer decision process in which the consumer uses information to evaluate alternative brands in the choice set.
• Purchase Decision: The fourth stage of the buyer decision process in which the consumer actually buys the product.
• Post Purchase Behavior: The last stage of the buyer decision process in which consumers take further action after purchase based no their satisfaction or dissatisfaction.