Compare the operating models
In this fictional example, The supplied retail plan awards two points per qualifying purchase. A café stamps each qualifying visit and awards a drink after five. A club assigns Gold status at a supplied annual threshold; Gold is not spent. These are invented policies.
| Business requirement | Earned reward balance | Membership status |
|---|---|---|
| Retail points | Earn and redeem counted points | Status alone cannot hold points |
| Café stamps | Qualifying visit count and reward | Not a Gold identity |
| Club Gold | No spendable Gold units | Criterion, period and benefits |
Work through the chosen model
Reward records identify earning events and redemptions. Stamp rules define qualifying visits, not every receipt. Tier records retain the supplied qualification period and benefit context. These models may coexist, but a tier change must not erase a points balance.
- Define desired customer reward
- Record qualifying event or status
- Show balance, progress or benefits
Rewards encourage a specific qualifying action but add earning and redemption administration. Tiers express continuing status but need transparent supplied criteria.
Three qualifying retail purchases earn six points. Four café visits show four of five stamps. Gold shows status benefits, not a balance of one spendable point.
When the other model fits
Customers simply need discounted access while a term is active. Must they earn points?
Show the worked answer
No. A supplied membership benefit can fit without an earning/redemption balance.