STRATEGYMonths to result

Positive Selection Framework

Selecting the right customers

Problem it solves

unclear strategic direction

Best for

Companies looking to attract profitable customers

Not ideal for

Companies with limited resources or unclear customer segments

Overview

Why this framework exists

The Positive Selection Framework is a strategy used by companies to attract the right customers. It involves creating offers that are more attractive to profitable customers, thereby screening out unprofitable ones. This framework is based on the idea that companies can design their offers to appeal to the customers they want to attract, while deterring those they don't. The key to this framework is to understand the different types of customers and design offers that cater to the profitable ones.

Core principles

3 total
  1. Design offers that appeal to profitable customers
  2. Understand the different types of customers and their needs
  3. Use screening devices to deter unprofitable customers

Steps

3 steps
  1. Identify Profitable Customer Segments
    Analyze customer data to identify profitable segments. This involves understanding customer behavior, preferences, and needs.
    Pro tipUse data analytics to identify patterns and trends in customer behavior
    WarningBe careful not to stereotype customers or make assumptions based on limited data
  2. Design Attractive Offers
    Create offers that cater to the needs of profitable customers. This involves designing products, services, or promotions that meet their needs and preferences.
    Pro tipUse customer feedback and testing to refine offers and improve their appeal
    WarningBe careful not to overpromise or underdeliver, as this can damage customer trust
  3. Implement Screening Devices
    Use screening devices to deter unprofitable customers. This involves designing offers that are less appealing to unprofitable customers, or using other mechanisms to screen them out.
    Pro tipUse data analytics to monitor customer behavior and adjust screening devices accordingly
    WarningBe careful not to discriminate against certain customer groups or violate anti-discrimination laws

Checklist

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Examples

2 cases
Capital One's Transfer of Balance Option

Capital One used the transfer of balance option to attract profitable customers. By offering a lower interest rate to customers who transferred their balances, Capital One was able to attract customers who were likely to pay back their loans, while deterring those who were not.

OutcomeCapital One was able to increase its customer base and reduce its default rates.
MBA as a Screening Device

An MBA can serve as a screening device for companies looking to hire talented managers. By requiring an MBA, companies can attract candidates who are more likely to have the necessary skills and knowledge.

OutcomeCompanies can reduce their hiring risks and improve their chances of finding talented managers.

Common mistakes

3 traps
Failing to Understand Customer Needs
If companies fail to understand the needs and preferences of their customers, they may design offers that are unappealing or ineffective.
Overreliance on Screening Devices
Companies should not rely too heavily on screening devices, as this can lead to false positives or false negatives.
Ignoring Customer Feedback
Companies should continuously collect and act on customer feedback to refine their offers and improve customer satisfaction.

Origin story

How this framework came to be

The Positive Selection Framework was illustrated through the example of Capital One, which used the transfer of balance option to attract profitable customers. By offering a lower interest rate to customers who transferred their balances, Capital One was able to attract customers who were likely to pay back their loans, while deterring those who were not.

Source

Traced to primary
Source · BOOK
The Art of Strategy: A Game Theorist's Guide to Success in Business and Life
Dixit, Avinash K. · 2008
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