From Advertising to Public Relations?

Advertising Still Plays an Important Role
Shaikh Nida, Student (Other), India
Well my friend you can't really say that, because advertising still plays an important role in marketing a product. Especially in the rural market which has tremendous opportunities for companies.
Advertising a product with good advertising tactics and strategy will surely create impact for a product in a market.

Advertising Plays an Important Role
Liz Mushonga, Project Manager, Zimbabwe
I wouldn't advise shunning advertising altogether because it still plays an important role in the marketing of goods and services.
What advertisers need to communicate are benefits not make fashion statements that overshadow the product. Whilst I agree that viral marketing is influencing purchase behaviour - this can only be relied on for luxury or speciality goods that require reduction of dissonance.
That is why some companies try to build loyalty clubs around their brands.