The next step is to group consumers with similar need sets. For example, the need for moderately priced, fun, sport automobiles appears to exist in many young single individuals, young couples with no children, and middle aged couples whose children have left home. These consumers can be grouped into one segment as far as product features and perhaps even product image are concerned despite sharply different demographics. Consumer Insigh 1-1 provides an additional example of "clustering" or grouping consumers with similar need sets. For example, those who are basic shoppers are all similar in that thier most critical need set is mall essentials.
This step generally involves consumer research, including focus group interviews, surveys, and product concept tests (see Appendix A). It could also involve an analysis of current consumption patterns.