Acknowledgements
As with all frameworks which seek to achieve a simple illustration of complex phenomena, usually for pedagogic purposes, Figure has been subject to several iterative refinements by the author. Having said that, acknowledgement is due to Sandra Schlick for her identification of a gap in the potential routes of intelligence acquisition. By adopting the framework as a structure for her PhD study, she recommended the inclusion of a mathematical modelling system heading, a suggestion which was entirely appropriate. This was introduced into Figure with the purpose, elements and principal applications sections being developed subsequently.
On behalf of all the authors, thanks are due to Dr Carolyn Strong and Professor Nigel Piercy for suggesting this Special Issue and for publishing our work in the Journal of Strategic Marketing. We hope that we have met your expectations and that unlike an unwelcome house guest, we will be allowed to visit again some time in the future.
September 2010