Marketing Connections: Sites to Explore

Anyone interested in marketing knows that the strategies used today will be exhausted and remodeled by tomorrow. In this cutting edge field, it is of utmost importance to remain in tune with the trends and innovations that emerge everyday. For this reason, I have decided to explore the vast world of the Internet in the hopes of discovering web resources that are both relevant and compelling. This week, I have come up with a list of ten outstanding websites and blogs (see Linkroll) that fit nicely into this category.

News sources on the web can be some of the most useful places to find information about the latest issues in marketing. AdvertisingAge is highly acclaimed and widely accepted as an expert source in the advertising world. Not only does it meet all of the determining criteria for an exceptional website, but it also is known for publishing daily articles, columns, and blogs that are pertinent and engaging. AdWeek is similar to AdAge in that it is a renowned and qualified source for marketing-related articles. It is also a good place to view videos (pictured left), job listings, photos, ad campaigns, and data on agencies, companies, and consumers

The Academy of Marketing Science Review and the Market Research Portal mainly focus on research-related academic materials. Although the AMS Review leaves something to be desired when it comes to aesthetics and complexity, it is nonetheless a valuable resource that provides the full text of academic journals free of charge. The Market Research Portal is a more interactive site designed for market researchers as well as academics. Again, the visual design is not of the highest quality, but there is a wealth of articles, documents, links, discussion boards, and glossaries to explore.

There are also several marketing associations that are worthwhile web sources. The American Advertising Federation, which claims to act as the "Unifying Voice for Advertising," is a trade association representing professionals and college students. The primary purpose of the website is to provide information on AAF, but it also lists events, awards, and job opportunities. The American Marketing Association, however, is much more useful as an academic and professional resource on current issues. In addition to career and organizational information, this website also has numerous publications online, including white papers, articles, case studies, and webcasts. Another link that falls into this category is the Business Marketing Association, which focuses on business to business marketing. With a discussion board and several research-related resources, this site is beneficial for those specifically interested in how business can market to each other. The Public Relations Society of America is another specialized website that mainly champions its own organization, but also presents a significant amount of additional supplies for people interested in PR, including a Professional Resource Center, where non-members can pay $5 for case studies, articles, and surveys.

Brand Autopsy and Church of the Customer are both commendable blogs maintained by professionals in the field. Brand Autopsy is written by John Moore, who is responsible for the marketing strategies of Starbucks and Whole Foods Market. Moore's qualified point of view coupled with numerous videos and pictures makes this blog a worthwhile visit. Ben McConnel and Jackie Huba are writers, speakers, and consultants that uphold the Church of the Customer blog. This site is less interactive and the posts are shorter, but nonetheless they are well-written and breach topics that are not obvious or overly discussed.