Ever wonder why, we as consumers purchase the things we purchase?  Could it be because of psychological influences, peer influences or simply, things we see on television? Well, there are scientists who specialize in this field. Through innovative methods, they study the behavior of consumers and their buying preferences.

Senses in the body can trigger ways for consumers to purchase a product. For example when we are in a restaurant, our sense of smell triggers whether or not we decide on eating a hamburger or settling for a salad. In an article called "What makes shoppers tick?",Daniel G. Amen, a clinical neuroscientist and author of "Change Your Brain, Change Your Life" explains that:

"Many people have noticed that certain smells sometimes brings up very strong, clear  memories,as if the whole feeling and sense of the original event were coming back to them. "There is a good reason for that: smell and memory are processed in the same area of the brain." (DDI)

More often than not sight is used whether or not we decide to purchase a product. Sight focuses in more on the aesthetics aspect of a product, such as, how it looks, Is it colorful?  Is it "eye" catching? Researchers in Texas have developed a "virtual reality store" to simulate how an actual store looks.

"Eye tracking technology also analyzes consumer's engagement and reaction to different shopping environments. "It's really about taking ideas full circle from concept all the way to reality- and doing that faster," Rhodes adds. "If you think about how we've traditionally  done that, if we can take time out of that innovation pipeline and bring an improved product to the marketplace in a faster means, that's a big win."(DDI)

This technology however is only used in "big box" stores such as "Toys-R-Us" and "Wal-Mart."  But for the independent stores, the biggest obstacle to overcome is money.  What innovative ways can independent retailers attract consumers?  Due to the interconnectedness we have available through the internet, posting your photos is as easy as 1, 2, and 3. Perhaps another way to get your product across is setting up blogs or registering for social networking sites. Even easier, simple observation can usually dictate to a retailer what the majority of his/her consumers want.

Why spend tons of money for consumer habits when you have the tools right in front of you.