In the quest for progress, biases and prejudices can lurk. Therefore, dissenting voices are vital to a successful measurement, writes Ekimetrics’ Afia Boshir.
In the ever-evolving landscape of marketing, the pursuit of truth is a sacred mission. Marketing effectiveness lies not just in deciphering the data, but also in telling the compelling story it holds.
To achieve this, three key players converge – the brand’s marketing team, the media planning team and the measurement team. Success in marketing measurement demands the delicate balance of independence and collaboration, with the harmonious symphony of dissenting voices at its core.
Enter Team You – the heart and soul of the brand. Immersed in the brand’s essence, you understand its intricacies like no other. As you and your team gather around the chart, a mesmerising time series representation of KPIs, your intimate knowledge breathes life into the numbers, adding invaluable context. Together, you unveil the peaks and troughs with passion, setting the stage for the journey ahead.
Next, Team Media Planning emerges – the architects behind media planning and execution. With the brand’s goals as their guiding star, they craft intricate strategies to fulfil marketing objectives. Their input transcends mere numbers; it gives the data meaning and purpose. They are the storytellers, weaving a narrative that dances with the rhythm of marketing possibilities.
And then, Team Measurement steps into the spotlight. Armed with scientific precision, they crunch numbers and perform statistical wonders. They navigate the labyrinth of data to find the truth. But amidst the rigidity of mathematics, they recognise the need for art – the art of context. This is where the voices of Team You and Team Media Planning come into play, infusing the data with depth and nuance.
However, the path to truth is often marred by challenges. In some corners of the marketing realm, bulk-buying and shifting inventory reign supreme. This can introduce inefficiencies, potentially diluting the effectiveness of the overall marketing mix. To combat such challenges, independence becomes a guiding light.
Preserving the independence of Team Measurement allows Team Media Planning to be transparent and honest. This opens the doors to dissenting voices – voices unafraid to challenge the status quo. Dissent stimulates constructive discussions, unearthing the optimal marketing plan. It provides an objective lens through which to evaluate performance, safeguarding against unwarranted excesses or overinflated claims.
Collaboration, too, is a potent force. Media agencies hold a wealth of data and insights, gleaned from their day-to-day encounters with the ever-changing media landscape. Sharing these insights with the brand’s team creates a fertile ground for growth. Together, they explore uncharted territories, unlocking new horizons and audiences.
Embracing collaboration also fosters growth within media agencies themselves. Many are shifting away from the bulk-buying model and making strategic choices. This trend is testament to the power of collaborative thinking and its potential to redefine marketing effectiveness.
However, in the quest for progress, biases and prejudices can lurk. This is where the essence of dissent becomes paramount. The voices of independence stand guard, vigilant against potential pitfalls. A holistic approach that accommodates dissenting perspectives ensures a thorough understanding of marketing performance.
In conclusion, the role of dissenting voices in successful marketing measurement is non-negotiable. Independence and collaboration form a symbiotic relationship, underpinning the journey to truth. Dissenting voices inspire critical thinking and objectivity, while collaboration unleashes the potential of collective wisdom. Together, they ignite the flame of marketing effectiveness, crafting a symphony of success that resonates with audiences and propels brands to new heights.
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Guest Author: Afia Boshir, Ekimetrics
