Apple Computer Marketing Planning

35 years ago, Apple Computer Company established a 3 point marketing philosophy in which they still hold at the core of the successful business they are today

Market Planning

Market Planning is the process of identifying and understanding the markets the company is targeting. Apple makes their products for the middle to upper class, targeting people looking for convenience and ease of use in their products. Market planning is most closely grouped into the "management" category in four functions of business because it is the main planning process for the business's marketing strategy. An important part of having a market plan is to have a product that fits it.

Product and Service Management

Product and service management is the design and development of products to best suit the consumers. The products at Apple are designed to have the best computing power, with the most capabilities, and still be easy to use and understand. "Production" is the best function of business to place this in because it deals with the creation of the product. No matter how good a product is, it must be able to reach the desired consumers

Distribution

Distribution is determining the best way for potential customers to find and revive a product. Apple customers have a wide array of ways to get the newest products. Apple has their own stores, and sells their products at most of the other large retailers around the globe. Buyers can also visit any of these store's websites, and order directly form there. Distribution belongs in the "operations" category because distribution is the act of moving the product, and making it available. One of the best ways for a company to get information about their product out it through advertising. 

Pricing

Pricing is the act of establishing the value of a product, and communicating it to consumers. New Apple products are priced to be afforded by wealthy or middle class customers. Pricing fits into "accounting and finance" because it deals with the money a company will receive. After customers know about the product and  the price, Apple must convince them that their 
product is the best.

Promotion

Promotion is using several different methods of advertising to convince customers to buy the product. Apple promotes their new products in large announcements, and continues to air commercials about the capabilities of their products. Promotion is in "operations" because it is ongoing activities to promote the product.  After the the consumer finds the product, they
will want to buy it. The company must establish a fair price, but that covers the costs