Balcom takes the question "You know what happens when you assume?" to heart. In order to avoid that, we surveyed business owners and marketers about their agency needs and how their 2011 marketing strategy is evolving. B-teamers disbursed the survey through email, social media and good ol' fashioned word-of-mouth. After running our B Heard survey for almost three weeks, here's what we found.

The Numbers

Percentages below are based on 68 total survey participants.

How do you think your marketing and/or communications will evolve in the coming year?

What is the greatest obstacle preventing you from achieving your marketing or communications goals?

Which area is your business or organization struggling with most?

If you could attend a training session on one subject, which would it be?

If you were to supplement your staff, which position would you add?

The Trends

What are the big focuses for 2011?

• As you can see from the graphs above, this year will bring more online, more web and more digital initiatives. Everyone is moving forward with their online outreach.

• Social media will definitely be used as a marketing tactic. Are you still leery of social media? Don't worry, you aren't alone. We found many are still unsure how to maneuver in and use social media effectively.

What are the struggles for 2011?

• Money makes everyone fret and this year is no different. Cost and affordability are still primary obstacles for most.

• Seeing the big picture and plan integration are also leaving people scratching their heads.

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We're using this research to better serve our clients in 2011. Have questions about the information or still scratching your head about your marketing strategy? Let us know.

What's on your radar?