how do all departments within a business (finance, HR etc.) contribute to the marketing department?

im really stuck for ideas... if someone could just give me a list for example.... Distribution = deliver the products but must liase with marketing to ensure they advertise the right time.... HR = finance = etc.... THANKS!!

Public Comments

1. Not being flippant, but in my experience every part of the business keeps as far away from markettng as possible.... that said, finance will of course set and monitor the marketing budget, HR will control head count of marketing department, technical dections will inform marketing of product spec... you really just need to consider what each section of the business does and think how the marketing function might affect/ be affected by that remit.
2. Hi Imagine that the structure of a business is like an umbrella when it is open. Start from the top with the business mission ie to be the best in the business.. to be the leader in XYZ market. So next is how to achieve that. Here all departments play a role. Marketing will be looking at which products to which customers, new products, new channels of distribution ie on line, then branding and advertising etc.. That is a growth strategy. That means you need to make more more sales. This is a key relationship with the other departments. If you aim for more sales you need more cash to buy more raw materials (depending on type of product). If it is a service eg financial service you may need more staff. They maybe paid overtime/incentive of some type. Again that is more cash and will ensure that finance and marketing work closely. You need to make sure you can deliver so the operations dept will need to hit deadlines. You will also need the right staff in the right place with the correct training and that is where HR comes in. Imagine you are Marketing Manager of iPhones and about to launch the latest version. Think through the implications from the on going development to the retailers, the cash needed and the staff from front line to call centre. Hope that helps?