One respondent highlighted the widespread industry practice among media agencies
and their clients of buying media space in bulk a year in advance (to take advantage of large
discounts and cost efficiency) even before clients have decided on their marketing plans
for the next year. This practice goes against IMC thinking because it forces television buys
even when this might not be the best medium for a given brand. This practice also stifles
the flexibility to experiment in other media. A few respondents have also pointed out that
the traditional, time-bound approach of the so-called 'campaign mentality' in promoting
brands is yet another indication of traditional thinking. This points to the need to shift to
today's reality of engaging consumers in ongoing, always-on, conversations.