Marketing communications incorporates various marketing tools and mediums in conjunction: Marketing communications generally focuses on how a company communicates its intended message to the marketplace, whether through print, radio, TV, packaging or any other media. For instance, television commercials are typically considered a form of media marketing because they are most often viewed by the masses, rather than by the specific target audience. Print advertising is the most well-known form of marketing communications. Radio spots or quick-time music segments, on the other hand, are only favored among specialized markets such as Baby Boomers or other younger groups.
However, integrated marketing communications, also known as multi-channel strategy, encompasses a wide variety of different activities aimed at the same purpose: To improve sales. The key to an integrated marketing communications plan is to select the most appropriate channels that will provide the maximum benefit to the organization. Each channel should have a clear purpose, such as communicating a new product line to a specific audience, or building brand recognition among a key target audience. If there is no purpose behind each channel, then it is of little use because no one will use it. It should be relatively easy to determine which channels should be developed for each part of the strategy.
In order for a campaign to succeed, the proper integration of the marketing tools and mediums must take place. This is the essence of integrated marketing communications strategies. Once these efforts build momentum, it is often difficult to keep up with the pace. In addition to changing priorities as the organization changes, there can also be changes in the way customers perceive your brand. The goal of this article is to provide a brief description of social media marketing and how it can be used as part of an integrated marketing communications strategy.
Social media has become a valuable tool in many different industries, and this is especially true for data marketing communications specialists. Data can often prove to be very controversial when presented in an effective manner, but by putting social media marketing into the appropriate context, this can be greatly improved upon. Most social media sites are highly competitive and most brands spend thousands of dollars on advertising. Because of this, it is important that social media consultants help organizations gain a competitive advantage by creating a social media presence that is relevant to the product or service they are attempting to market. For instance, if the product being sold is not particularly well known, then data marketing communications specialists might consider posting some basic information about the product on their main website.
Another important aspect of integrated marketing communications is to incorporate the data, creativity, and a philosophy into every aspect of the campaign. There is a popular saying that describes the wu philosophy in a very simplistic manner: “Where there is a will there is a way.” This phrase refers to the fact that without a will there is no way to truly make a campaign successful. This can be a very difficult concept to grasp, but when it comes to integrated marketing communications and data, a designer has to take care of every aspect of the campaign in order for the strategy to be properly implemented. Even the most seemingly simple idea, such as embedding data into a marketing video, has to be planned in order for it to work. Without proper planning, a social network video may very well become an eyesore and be considered a complete disaster.
In short, integrated marketing communications requires the integration of promotional tools and technology that are designed and developed in house by the firm, in conjunction with the creative strategy and a philosophy that are carried out internally. The ultimate goal of this strategy is to create a culture and brand identity that are consistent throughout all areas of the company, which ensures a consistent level of customer service and a consistent return on investment from clients. In addition to this, data and multimedia marketing efforts need to coordinate with the design of the company website, and all promotional tools and resources used to promote the business. If there are any inconsistencies, these should also be identified and addressed during the planning stages of the campaign. With the help of a specialist, businesses can have the best integrated marketing communications possible. To find a local professional, it is important to conduct research to ensure that the services offered are suited to your specific needs.
