What are the major steps in developing effective marketing communications?

As a college
senior and probably a business or marketing major, this is a question that sounds like it is
directed towards specific class or textbook information, so keep that in mind as you read my
answer, and tailor it to fit what your instructor wants.

Step 1:  Set
objectives for the campaign.  Do you want to increase sales? Brand recognition?  Public good
will?

Step 2: Identify a market demographic for the campaign - at which
population will this campaign be aimed at?

Step 3:  Plan to coordinate your
marketing campaign with other events and efforts, such as sales, holidays and other marketing
efforts in different media

Step 4:  Develop a specific marketing plan.  Which
media will you use?  How will your dollars be most cost effectively spent?  When will the timing
of the campaign take place?

Step 5: Implement measures and strategies that
can accurately track the success/results of your campaign.

Step 6: Evaluate
successes and flaws and make adjustments to future plans.