Coverage balances upon three essential pillars -- (1) theory and concepts; (2) practices and applications; and (3) instructional support -- cultivating an efficient, effective reading and learning environment. Topics include marketing in a changing world; strategic planning and the marketing process; the global marketing environment; marketing research and information systems; consumer and business buyer behavior; market segmentation, targeting, and positioning for competitive advantage; product and service strategies; new-product development and life-cycle strategies; pricing considerations and strategies; distribution channels and logistics management; retailing and wholesaling; advertising and public relations; personal selling and sales promotion; direct and online marketing; the global marketplace; and marketing and society.