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How can popular misconceptions about the nature of customer relationship marketing/management limit the effectiveness of this approach? How are companies misled by an over‐reliance on technology, lack of strategic perspective, use of faulty metrics, inadequate segmentation, neglect of brand considerations, blind faith in data, and confusion regarding leadership roles? This article challenges the misconceptions and provides guidance on how to successfully execute a customer relationship strategy.

Asserts that the essential role of Customer Satisfaction Measurement (CSM) is not simply a research activity, but a key management tool. Suggests the Quality Integration Framework as one attempt to blend the components of external, perceived quality (upper pyramid) with a hierarchy of organisational elements pertaining to the company′s internal quality (lower pyramid). Proposes that total quality can exist only when the two pyramids are closely aligned. Considers the external and internal quality and discusses some implications of the Framework. Concludes that CSM is a strategic tool which progressive companies will treat as an integral element of the firm′s total quality management.