REFLECTIONS

 

PROJECT FINAL REFLECTION 

1. Putting theory into practice.

        Throughout this endeavour, our team had the opportunity to see and practice the 4Ps of marketing theory, namely product, price, place and promotion, in the context of a real business, namely Oxalis Homestay, Kangar, Perlis. Interviewing the owner, visiting the location and researching the business, gave us an idea of ​​how the concept could work in a “real world” setting.

        For example, Oxalis Homestay’s product range consists of the tangible, for example offering a place to stay with Wi-Fi, a kitchen and the intangible, by showcasing a peaceful environment and a beautiful view of the rice fields with minimal clutter. The homestay location is definitely suitable for families and small groups who need comfort, simplicity and a local experience. Regarding check-in, the homeowner has a hidden box where the key is kept which is designed by the key service. The price section shows fixed prices. The price range can be said to be at RM190-RM200 per night, this is at the lower end of the homestay price range and lacks a seasonal pricing strategy which can be limiting during the high season. Throughout our project, we saw how price not only dictated what we got but also our customers’ expectations of quality and value.

        For place (distribution), Oxalis Homestay used direct channels such as using Facebook, TikTok, WhatsApp and phone calls as booking channels. Such platforms helped the business to create personal relationships with our customers but it also showed the limits of not being present on larger digital platforms, such as Agoda or Airbnb when we found ourselves struggling to reach international markets. Promotional strategies mostly relied on content from social media. Engaging Videos, Testimonials & Facebook stories are the perfect way to engage with clear opportunities, and what can build the Oxalis Homestay project to reach their target market more effectively when working with influencers or creating an official website and social media accounts solely for Oxalis Homestay.

2. Relationship between 4Ps and marketing strategy.

        According to the plan for Oxalis Homestay, each of the 4Ps, namely Product, Price, Place and Promotion, has its own significant impact on shaping its marketing strategy. In our analysis, we found that the homestay’s strategy regarding the market can be tailored to families and small groups looking for a quiet getaway.

• Products: This product is definitely aimed at guests looking for comfort, families and those looking for a quiet and peaceful stay. Homestay amenities, such as Wi-Fi, air-conditioning and a fully equipped kitchen, as well as self-check-in services, are basic but in line with what most consumers now expect. The homestay’s focus on the beautiful rural charm lends emotional and experiential value to its product positioning.

• Price: Oxalis Homestay is reasonably priced, with the only difference between units being in size and views. This predictable nature allows customers to trust and make easy decisions. However, without seasonal pricing, it is difficult to capitalize on the very high demand during peak times. Businesses can be more responsive to demand, especially during school or public holidays, with a more dynamic pricing structure.

• Place (Distribution): Homestay distribution is heavily focused on direct communication channels including WhatsApp, Facebook and TikTok. It will be more personal than faceless social media accounts, which will make the owner-customer interaction more credible. However, this model does not scale and places limitations on reach, especially for international travellers or end customers who are used to booking accommodations through services like Airbnb or Agoda. Adding to the platform is great for exposure and convenience.

• Promotion: Promotion on social networks through engaging content (videos, customer testimonials, direct interactions). This is a low-cost, personal marketing tactic to build trust with the local market. However, Oxalis Homestay does not have a standard multi-channel marketing strategy, which could have encouraged it to promote itself to a wider audience. Partnering with micro-influencers, building a website, and expanding to platforms like Instagram and YouTube Shorts could help further increase its brand visibility.

        All 4 elements together refer to the marketing plan, which promotes Oxalis Homestay as a unique community-centered value-based accommodation. However, in the absence of improvements in pricing flexibility, digital reach, and formal promotion in sharing those benefits across partner destinations, the current approach risks fostering only short-term growth, especially given the competitive and rapidly changing nature of tourism that the strategy seeks to exploit and explore.

3. Lessons and personal takeaways.

        I also had the opportunity to gain a new perspective on how marketing theory is put into practice in a real business setting. Before that, I only knew about the 4Ps of marketing in theory. This project allowed me to see how each element is actually used in a small business environment. The most important lesson learned is that marketing is more than promotion. It’s about putting the relevant product in the hands of those who need it, setting the right cost, and delivering it to the people who want to buy it in an efficient manner. This integrated strategy works to align all forms of marketing so that they complement each other and add value to the business and its customers.

      I was also impressed by how effectively small homestays were able to compete in their local tourism market by using low-cost techniques like WhatsApp and social media. Not only did these tools reduce marketing costs, but they also improved customer relationships through personal dialogue. This showed the importance of understanding how customers behave and how you can better communicate with them. And I realized how effective strategies like offering self-check-in, ensuring a flat rate, and sharing real guest experiences can have a huge impact on people’s happiness and the sustainability of your business.

4. Reflection on teamwork and collaboration.

       During the course of this project, our group demonstrated excellent teamwork, clear communication, and efficient collaboration. Each member was assigned responsibility for one element of the 4Ps, which allowed us to focus and develop a deep understanding of each component. This segregation of duties encouraged oversight, which in turn facilitated effective project management.

        The five of us worked together more closely in Week 11, as the revision and assembly of paperwork began in earnest. We used group discussions to coordinate writing styles, review case files for accuracy, and achieve consistency across reports. All authors participated in drafting and revising the manuscript while editing and proofreading. We also helped each other and shared appropriate resources such as photos, audio, and ideas on how to improve visual representations.

        My teamwork experience also demonstrated the value of mutual respect, active listening, and playing a role in a team. And by complementing each other and overcoming struggles together, the final report was generated to represent all of our work as a group. This project taught me that true collaboration is not just about separate work but is about collaboration with dedication and teamwork working toward a common goal.