The buying process starts when the buyer recognizes a problem or need triggered by internal or
external stimuli. With an internal stimulus, one of the person’s normal needs—hunger, thirst, sex—
rises to a threshold level and becomes a drive. A need can also be aroused by an external stimulus.
A person may admire a friend’s new car or see a television ad for a Hawaiian vacation, which
inspires thoughts about the possibility of making a purchase.
Marketers need to identify the circumstances that trigger a particular need by gathering information from a number of consumers. They can then develop marketing strategies that spark
consumer interest. Particularly for discretionary purchases such as luxury goods, vacation
packages, and entertainment options, marketers may need to increase consumer motivation so a
potential purchase gets serious consideration