Putting Your Product on the Fast-Track to Success: The Importance of a Go-to-Market Approach in Your Marketing Arsenal

By Robyn Sachs

Integrated marketing approaches have skyrocketed in popularity over the last several years, for a largely two-fold reason:

  1. Their emphasis on ‘matching the vehicle to the goal’ enables a more efficient,results-driven process focused on specific needs
  2. This process leverages an organization’s budget to ensure they are receiving the ultimate ‘bang for their buck’

While integrated marketing approaches can and should be implemented at several stages of a company or product’s evolution, one critical phase is in the early days of a market launch, entry, and growth. Known as a “Go-to-Market Strategy”, this process combines key elements of integrated marketing to deliver a comprehensive, structured plan designed to achieve maximum success.

So, how does a Go-to-Market approach work? And, for whom does it work best?

First, it’s important to note that the elements of a Go-to-Market initiative can be put into practice for companies and products at all stages of development; from emerging enterprises and start-ups to established organizations.  In terms of key activities, part of what differentiates a Go-to-Market approach from other market entry plans is the systematic structure behind it, along with the extensive market research and positioning, vetting, and strategic elements that use a process-driven approach that draws on leading industry best practices. This ‘Business Case’ focus allows organizations access to a large amount information, with appropriate targeting, to ensure they are as prepared as possible to achieve success and market growth.

A typical Go-to-Market plan consists of five phases, which may be tailored to a specific company or product’s needs, current market position, and future goals.  These include:

  • Phase 1 – Internal audit of existing systems, infrastructures, and initiatives;
  • Phase 2 – External market research and competitive analysis activity to determine market position, differentiating qualities, and growth opportunities;
  • Phase 3- Market segmentation and targeting analysis;
  • Phase 4- Implementation, planning and development; and
  • Phase 5- Development of a comprehensive business plan and financial models.

These Phases will determine key product value propositions and maximize market position based upon competitive assessment analysis, answering key questions such as: 

  • What is the relative value of the company’s current product set compared to competitive products, substitutes or “client integrated” solutions and customer demand?
  • What is the recommended pricing and channel environment?
  • What is the anticipated competitive position/response of rival products?
  • What is the best pricing strategy based upon market demand and/or what or could be provided by competitors?

This strategy will optimize market receptivity by utilizing efficient market targeting and customer acquisition, while driving high growth revenue for the Company’s initial product offering or re-launch.