3What do you think of Targets predictive analytics How have

3/What do you think of Target\'s predictive analytics? How have you been affected by organizations that create a profile of you as a customer? Do you agree or would you suggest changes in how organizations are doing this?

4/How many more things do you check today compared to a year ago? How long can you go without checking your devices without experiencing anxiety? When do you put down your mobiles and concentrate on one thing at a time? Do your answers indicate that you are experiencing digital or connectivity overload?   

5/Discuss two technologies that are converging and, as a result, are blurring the digital and physical worlds.

Solution

Target is the second biggest retailer company in the United States. It uses predictive analysis to determine the consumer buying patterns. The company uses the customer information to determine their likes or dislikes. Initially, the company gathers some preliminary information about their customer using customer survey form like their name, age, city, designation etc. Later it purchases information about the customer and monitors and records their activity each time they visit the store. The company uses this information to understand the requirements of the customers and provide them the required products and services.

Target’s predictive analysis is unethical in nature since it collects personal data regarding the customers. At present, each major retailer including grocery chain, apparel manufacturer, and investment banks are using this strategy. Therefore, nearly each individual would be affected by such organizations that create a profile of a person as a customer. For example, if someone searches over internet about credit cards, within 24 hours they receive call from banks offering the service.

Organizations might collect the basic information regarding a customer’s likes or dislikes using other options like online surveys, feedback forms or other techniques. The method of collecting personal data for the customers is highly unethical.