"Partial segmentation" is spelled /ˈpɑrʃl/ /ˌsɛɡmɛnˈteɪʃən/. The first part, "partial," is pronounced with the IPA symbols /ˈpɑrʃl/, with the letter "p" pronounced as a voiced bilabial plosive (like in "pie") and the "a" as an open back unrounded vowel (like in "father"). The second part, "segmentation," is pronounced with the IPA symbols /ˌsɛɡmɛnˈteɪʃən/, with the letter "g" pronounced as a voiced velar plosive (like in "goat") and the accent on the second syllable. This term refers to the act of dividing something into parts or segments.
Partial segmentation is a marketing strategy that involves dividing a market into smaller and more specific segments based on certain selected characteristics but not considering all possible factors. This approach focuses on identifying and targeting subgroups of customers with similar needs and preferences.
In partial segmentation, marketers choose to segment the market based on a limited set of variables that are most relevant to their product or service. These variables can include demographic factors such as age, gender, income, or geographic factors such as location or urban/rural classification. By grouping customers based on these selected factors, marketers can create segments that possess similarities in terms of their buying behavior, interests, or consumption patterns.
Unlike comprehensive segmentation that considers multiple variables and a more detailed analysis of the market, partial segmentation takes a narrower approach. It recognizes that addressing every possible variable that could influence consumer behavior or market dynamics may not be feasible or necessary for a particular product or service.
By undertaking partial segmentation, companies can tailor their marketing efforts to meet the needs and desires of specific groups that share key characteristics. This allows businesses to better understand and connect with their target audience, leading to more effective marketing campaigns, improved product design, and enhanced customer satisfaction.
The term "partial" comes from the Latin word "par(t)" meaning "part" or "portion". It entered English in the late 14th century, referring to something being incomplete or not whole.
"Segmentation" originates from the Latin word "segmentum", which refers to a piece or section. It entered English in the early 17th century, primarily used in geometry to describe the division of lines, angles, or circles into segments.
Therefore, the etymology of "partial segmentation" comes from the combination of "partial" meaning incomplete or not whole, and "segmentation" meaning the act of dividing or separating into segments or parts.