Strategy & Planning
“Strategy without tactics is the slowest route to victory
Tactics without strategy is the noise before defeat.”
− Sun Tzu
What is a Strategy?
Defining marketing communication strategy is not an easy task because it depends upon different distinct variables. It is planning and integration of all communication tools for a single purpose. In 1997, Smith et al defined marketing communications strategy as −
“The message or sequence of messages which should be shared with specific target audiences through the optimum communications mix.”
Features of Marketing Communications Strategy
Before you make a strategy, you need to consider the following three points suggested by Micael Dahlen et al (2003) −
Target Audience − Whom are we trying to reach
Persuasive Message − What do we want to say to them
Channel − How are we going to say it
Marketing Communications Strategy Process
To make a well-planned and result-oriented strategy, you need to follow a strategic process. The following diagram illustrates the important components of marketing communications strategy process −
Marketing Communications Planning
Planning and strategy is pretty confusing terms and many times used interchangeably. However, the most significant difference between them are — planning is an internal problems and strategy is the external problems of the company. Secondly, planning supports strategy to get accomplished. The following diagram illustrates the Marketing Communication Planning −
Changing Trend of Marketing Communication
Today, the trend of advertisement and marketing communication has changed. Many of the companies including Adidas, Nike, Coca-Cola, etc., are putting more emphasis on digital marketing.
For example, as per the report − Nike’s new future campaign strategy is “Competition via Social Media.” Nike has reduced the budget of its traditional marketing by 40%. Its new strategy is to target group audience in the 15-25 age group through social media.
Another example is that of Adidas. The main strategies of Adidas group are −
- Diverse Brand Portfolio
- Investments Focused on Highest-Potential Markets and Channels
- Creating a Flexible Supply Chain
- Leading Through Innovation
- Develop a Team Grounded in our Heritage
- Becoming a Sustainable Company
Check Your Progress
- What is the difference between strategy and planning?
- What is the difference between strategy and planning?
- Define various features of marketing communications planning.
- Define the new strategy of big brands.
