Too often, marketing managers find themselves in a situation where they don't know what they're doing or where they stand. It is usually the result of not having a clear strategy or not having implemented the right tools and techniques. In this blog post, we will share the SOSTAC® planning framework with you. The SOSTAC® planning framework is a powerful tool that can help you overcome these challenges and create a realistic and actionable strategy. Using it, you will be able to find clear business objectives, develop a plan of action, and track your marketing metrics effectively. So if you want to take your marketing management to the next level, read on!

What is the SOSTAC® planning framework?

SOSTAC® is a marketing planning framework that PR Smith has developed. It is recognised as one of the best marketing planning frameworks by the Chartered Institute of Marketing. Companies worldwide, including Linkedin, KPMG, and RBS, use SOSTAC® in their marketing planning. SOSTAC® provides a comprehensive framework for marketing planning, covering the situation analysis, objectives, strategy, tactics, and action aspects of marketing.

What are the benefits of using the SOSTAC® planning framework?

The SOSTAC® planning framework is a great way to organise your marketing strategy and action plans. It's easy to use and can help you achieve your business goals by breaking down large goals into manageable steps. The framework includes the following five sections: strategy, objectives, strategy implementation, measurement and control, and review and revision. It provides an easy-to-follow structure that makes it easy to integrate into your marketing plan. Additionally, the strategy, objectives, strategy implementation, measurement and control, and review and revision sections can be customised to fit the specific needs of your business.

1. You lack clear business objectives

2. You have a strategy but no action plan

Starting a marketing program can be daunting, but it's key to have a strategy and action plan in place too. Make sure you track your progress and stay on top of your tactics so you can make the necessary adjustments. SOSTAC® timing and resource plans will help you stay on track with your overall strategy. Additionally, GANTT charts can manage the action plan over time. By doing all of this, you'll be well on your way to successfully marketing your business.

3. You need a clear understanding of your market

Creating a marketing strategy that is effective and tailored to your business is essential for success. But it doesn't stop there - you also need to understand your market clearly. This means understanding your target audience and what motivates them. From there, you can start creating content that speaks to them personally. SOSTAC®s situation analysis process provides the perfect starting point for your strategy. It helps you understand your market, competitor analysis, customer analysis, market analysis, and more. By working through the process step-by-step, you'll be on your way to creating an effective marketing plan to help you reach your business goals.

4. You're busy but lack a clear strategy

Being busy is great, but it is important to have a strategy for all your marketing activities. This way, you're not busy for busy's sake - you're busy for the sake of your business. That's where SOSTAC® comes in. SOSTAC® is a marketing strategy tool that provides the structure and guidance you need to ensure all of your marketing actions align with your business goals and objectives. SOSTAC® helps you plan your marketing budget, track your performance, and measure the impact of your marketing campaigns.

5. You don't know whether you're tracking the right marketing metrics

Tracking your marketing campaigns' performance is crucial to ensure they are achieving the desired results. Use tracking tools to identify any gaps in performance and correct them as quickly as possible. This will help you achieve the objectives you set for your marketing strategy and boost your business growth.

Make sure to evaluate how well you're performing against your expected results and make necessary changes to keep ahead of the competition. Finally, create a clear performance improvement plan so you can continue to grow at a high rate.

Conclusion

If you're feeling confused about your marketing strategy or don't know where to start, the SOSTAC® planning framework is perfect for you! This framework provides you with a clear plan of action that you can use to achieve your business objectives. Make sure to give it a try and see the benefits for yourself!