Profiling Early Triers of Service Innovations: A Look at Interactive Home Video Ordering Services

Examines the need for marketers of service innovations to be aware of barriers to trial and adoption. Considers the example of the introduction of interactive home video ordering services in the USA which failed in part due to inaccurate market segmentation and targeting. Introduces empirical evidence, based on Roger′s model of diffusion, that early trier segments exist for innovative services. States that the study′s findings are of relevance to other services such as cellular telephone systems and electronic funds transfer systems. Concludes that early trier segments should be targeted during initial marketing carried out by service providers, who will have studied potential markets and identified requirements of different segments.