Since we published our updated MRM vendor list last week, many marketing managers asked: What are MRM vendors exactly? And what is it that MRM vendors exactly offer? Good question!

Here's the answer. So far, the only common denominator we found among MRM vendors, is that they 'call' themselves MRM vendors.

The fact to the matter is that they offer a wide range of valuable solutions, like channel management, print management, distribution of collateral, campaign management, budget management, collaboration, measurement and reporting, you name it.

But that is not all. MRM software is also touching neighboring areas like CMS (Content Management Systems), DAM (Digital Asset Management) and CRM (Customer Relationship Management).

We have found also many different definitions of MRM. And on top of that, there are many synonyms for MRM, like MPM, MOM, EMM. Some suggest that many acronyms are used by companies to show their unique positioning, saying "we are the world leading ... player!".

Quite confusing for you as a marketing manager...! What can we learn from this? At least one thing. Make sure you get support when selecting your MRM vendor! How? Here is a start.