구전행동에 따른 소비자 유형과 특성

Abstract

Word-of-mouth (WOM) communication (traditionally important in consumption) is expanding its influence into cyber space and is playing an important role in online shopping. Consumers who use online shopping might not readily make purchasing decisions due to information overload, lack of accurate product recognition, and the distrust of commercial information. Subsequently, people use WOM communication for a mutual interchange with others who share common concerns, interests, and purposes. This study examines the consumer characteristics, perceived risk on online shopping and benefits of online shopping according to WOM behavior that may significantly affect consumer actions. Factor analysis, t-test, one-way ANOVA, cluster analysis, and Chi-square analysis were used for statistical analysis to identify the differences in consumer characteristics. Online WOM behavior consumers purchased more various items than offline WOM behavior consumers; however, the most influential purchasing factor was price regardless of WOM behavior. Offline WOM behavior consumers have shown higher perceived online shopping risks and benefits.