Engel Blackwell Miniard Model Of Consumer Behaviour [EBM Model]

Are you ready to dive into the world of consumer behavior and learn about the Engel Blackwell Miniard model? Good, because I’m about to break it down for you in a way that anyone can understand with a good real-life example.

What is Engel Blackwell Miniard Model?

Essentially, Engel Blackwell Miniard Model is a framework that helps marketers understand how consumers make decisions about purchasing products or services. 

The model is made up of four stages: problem recognition, information search, evaluation of alternatives, and purchase decision.

Problem Recognition

This is where it all begins. The consumer realizes that they have a need or want that isn’t being met. For instance, one might say, “I require new running shoes because the ones I have are worn out,” or “I want a new phone because the one I have now is out of date.”

Information Search

Now that the consumer has identified a problem, they start searching for information to help them make a decision. 

This could include asking friends and family for recommendations, looking at online reviews, or visiting different stores to compare prices and features.

Evaluation of Alternatives

Once the consumer has gathered all the information they need, they start evaluating the different options available to them. They compare and contrast the different products and services, and consider factors like price, quality, and convenience.

Purchase Decision

And finally, the consumer makes a decision and purchases the product or service. But the journey doesn’t end there – the consumer will also evaluate their decision post-purchase to see if it met their needs and expectations.

Just know that Engel Blackwell Miniard model is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Every consumer is different, and their decision-making process may vary. But by understanding this framework, marketers can better anticipate and influence consumer behavior.

Example of Engel Blackwell Miniard model

Here’s an example of how the Engel Blackwell Miniard model plays out in real life:

Let’s say you’re a college student and you want to buy a new laptop.

Problem Recognition

You realize that your current laptop is old and slow, and you need a new one for your classes and studying.

Information Search

You ask your friends for recommendations, look at online reviews, and compare prices and features of different laptops on different websites.

Evaluation of Alternatives

You compare and contrast the different laptops and consider factors like price, quality, and convenience.

Purchase Decision

You finally decide to buy a new laptop and you make the purchase.

Final Thoughts!

I hope this article has been helpful in understanding EBM model of consumer behaviour. Let me know in the comments if you still have any confusion in understanding this model.

Read: Howard Sheth Model Of Consumer Behaviour