Creating Superior Customer Value in the Now Economy

Companies today must have a customer value mindset and deliver exceptional value. Solid customer relationships ensure retention and improve business performance. This conceptual article explains how to create and manage customer value in changing global markets. Key business sectors and growth prospects in the Now Economy are described. The Now Economy requires companies to master the 5-S formula—speed, service, selection, sociability, and solutions. As millennials are a major part of the digital marketplace, their preferences are explored. A framework for introducing and enhancing customer value based on service, quality, image, and price (S-Q-I-P) is recommended for marketing managers. Customer-centric, strategic implications for relationship management are provided. In addition, a customer value research agenda—related to speed, time, segmentation, product strategy, pricing, and new technologies—is offered to scholars.