For example, all employee are customers of the Human Resource Function. Manufacturing is a customer of Engineering, and Sales is a customer of Marketing. None of these internal functions can operate on its own. They are dependent on knowing the expectations and getting feedback on their products, services, and performance in order to build strong and responsive internal relationships. The lack of internal customer knowledge courts costly organizational confusion.
External customers are a treasure trove of valuable information.
Do not take them for granted. Find out who they are. Invite them in. Then listen, listen, listen. Their input about your organization will help determine future products and services, potential market share, and cost and profit elasticity.