There are five roles that individuals can play in the consumer buying process: initiator, influencer, decider, buyer, and user. The initiator is the first to suggest the idea of a purchase. The influencer's views can impact the buying decision. The decider determines what, when, and where to buy. The buyer makes the actual purchase. And the user consumes or uses the product or service. These roles are illustrated through examples of purchasing children's snacks, a laptop, and a diamond ring.