The recency frequency model (RFM)

There are many different types of segmentation models that can be used to analyze customer data, including the Recency-Frequency-Monetary Value model (RFM)

The recency frequency model (RFM)
by JoseRacowski
October 23, 2022
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We’ve all heard the term “segmentation,” but what does it mean? Segmentation is a way to split up your customers into different groups based on their needs, interests, and purchasing patterns. There are many different types of segmentation models that can be used to analyze customer data, including the Recency-Frequency-Monetary Value model (RFM). It is one of the most commonly used methods for segmenting consumers into groups based on their monetary value and frequency of purchase habits

RFM is a simple, classic technique for business and marketing to find your best customers

RFM is a simple, classic technique for business and marketing to find your best customers. RFM is used for customer segmentation, customer value analysis, and direct marketing.

RFM is a three-dimensional matrix that divides customers into recency, frequency, and monetary value segments. 

The first segment (recency) specifies the time since they last purchased from you; the second (frequency) refers to how often they purchase from you, and the third (monetary value) identifies how much they spend with you every time they make a purchase.

It groups people or households into segments based on their historical spending patterns

In marketing and business, the recency frequency model (RFM) is a simple, classic technique for finding your best customers. 

RFM uses historical spending patterns to group people or households into segments based on their purchasing history. This method is used for customer segmentation, customer value analysis, and direct marketing campaigns.

  • Recency: Customers who purchased recently are more likely to purchase again in the near future than those who have not made purchases recently
  • Frequency: The number of times customers purchased products in a time period is an indication of their loyalty toward a particular brand or product line

The RFM model categorizes your customers in a three-dimensional matrix by dividing them into recency, frequency, and monetary value

The RFM model is a three-dimensional matrix that divides your customers into recency, frequency, and monetary value (RFM). Each of these dimensions gets a score. The scores are used to categorize your customers.

The Recency dimension measures the time since your last interaction with the customer (e.g., purchase or fill). The time frame could be days, weeks, months, or years depending on what is relevant for your business.

The Frequency dimension measures how often you interact with the customer within a specified period of time (e.g., month or year). Generally speaking, there are two types of frequency: low-frequency and high-frequency customers. 

A low-frequency customer buys once every few months while high-frequency customers buy several times per month/year/whatever period you choose to measure consistency by.

The monetary value metric is the average amount spent per purchase—how many dollars did your customer spend on their last order? The more money they spend, the better: that means they’re getting more value out of what you’re offering them.

The three scores are assigned a number between one and 10, with 10 being the most valuable (best) segment and one being the least valuable (worst)

The three scores are assigned a number between one and 10, with 10 being the most valuable (best) segment and one being the least valuable (worst). The scores can be determined using real amounts or simply compared on an equal scale.

In order to calculate your RFM scores, you must first find out how much each customer spends with you in total. This can be done by calculating an average amount per transaction or by multiplying each transaction against its frequency of occurrence within a certain time frame. 

For example: if a customer has made five purchases over the past year at $10 each, their total spending would be $50 ($10 x 5). If another person has made just one purchase during that same time period for $200, their total spending is $200 ($200 / 1).

You then assign these segments to each of your customers based on their purchasing behavior

You then assign these segments to each of your customers based on their purchasing behavior. Each customer has a Recency score, Frequency score and Monetary Value. The equation is as follows:

  • Recency Score = (Time since last purchase) X (Number of repeat purchases)
  • Frequency Score = (Time since first purchase) X (Number of repeat purchases)
  • Monetary Value = Purchase Amount X Number Of Purchases

With this information, you can tailor your marketing campaigns to your best customers

This model is a powerful way to understand your customers and how they interact with your business. 

You can use this information to tailor future marketing campaigns that are most likely to reach the customers that are most interested in buying from you. 

In addition, the RFM will help you make better business decisions about which products or services should be prioritized next, based on customer preferences. 

Finally, using this model helps you understand what features matter most to each of these types of customers—information that may help you generate more revenue.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the RFM model can help you better understand your customers and tailor marketing campaigns to them. It’s a simple but effective technique for improving your business results.

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