Frank J. Carmone

Consumer Segmentation Via Latent Class Analysis

A nontechnical description of latent class analysis and a discussion of the CANDECOMP procedure and its application to consumer adoption of a new telecommunications service is presented with some suggestions for other areas in consumer and market research where latent class analysis might be of use.

A preliminary study of optimal variable weighting in k-means clustering

Recently, algorithms for optimally weighting variables in non-hierarchical and hierarchical clustering methods have been proposed. Preliminary Monte Carlo research has shown that at least one of these algorithms cross-validates extremely well.The present study applies a k-means, optimal weighting procedure to two empirical data sets and contrasts its cross-validation performance with that of unit (i.e., equal) weighting of the variables. We find that the optimal weighting procedure cross-validates better in one of the two data sets. In the second data set its comparative performance strongly depends on the approach used to find seed values for the initial k-means partitioning.

Segment Congruence Analysis: A Method for Analyzing Association among Alternative Bases for Market Segmentation

Multidimensional contingency table analysis is applied to questions of which set of variables should constitute the distinguished base from which segments are formed. Empirical applications that illustrate a general analytical approach and possible uses of the methodology in segmentation studies of consumer behavior are also discussed.

The Effect of Task on Intra-Individual Differences in Similarities Judgments

In a recent MBR article (1969), Fenker and Brown discuss the relationship between task spaces and conceptual space in the multidimensional scaling of similarities judgments. This article extends some of their research to the case of multiple judges and real stimuli: a set of 20 bakery-type food items. In addition, we examine the relationship between overall similarities judgments and task-specified similarities judgments.

Technology and Aging: Identification and Evaluation of Products to Enhance an Independent Lifestyle

The process of aging is a complex biological phenomenon which may be broadly characterized by the progressive decline in the capacity of an organism to withstand environmental stresses. The time-dependent changes that occur with advancing age manifest themselves as anthropometric, physiological and biochemical alterations in the organism (Shock, 1981). Although these changes in physiological adaptability render aging individuals more susceptible to the stresses of everyday living, the mature population can exhibit a high level of physiological and cognitive performance given environments which would accommodate the changes accompanying biological aging (Baker and Andrews, 1981). Much of the built environment in our society is a reflection of products and design that accommodate the physiological and psychosocial needs of a young adult. The development and application of technology—broadly defined as adaptations and/or alterations to the environment that would enhance the independence of older individuals—could ameliorate some physiological changes and enhance a mature individual’s fully integrated role in society.