Core Viewpoint - The concept of "brand" is evolving, and traditional brand departments may become obsolete as companies adapt to new communication methods with consumers [1][3][4] Group 1: Brand Department Changes - JD.com has dissolved its brand department, transferring responsibilities to the marketing department, indicating a shift in how brands are managed [1] - The traditional functions of brand departments, such as visual material management and brand promotion, may no longer be relevant in the current market [2][3] Group 2: The Necessity of Brands - Despite changes, brands are still essential as long as companies need to communicate with target customers [4][5] - In a market economy where consumer choice is vital, brands help reduce decision-making costs for consumers [112] Group 3: Understanding Brands - Definitions of brands vary widely, from being mere symbols to complex images that encompass various attributes [10][11] - Ultimately, a brand must attract target customers, which is the fundamental goal for businesses [18][20] Group 4: Key Factors for Business Success - Successful businesses must provide products that meet consumer needs, persuade customers to exchange value, and ensure costs are lower than revenues [25][66] - Understanding consumer needs and effectively communicating value are critical for business sustainability [39][45] Group 5: Brand Formation - Brands are formed through a combination of product experience, customer trust, and consistent messaging across all company functions [82][83] - The effectiveness of a brand is not solely dependent on the brand department but requires a unified effort from the entire organization [90][92] Group 6: Case Study of Brand Success - The case of "巧油坊" demonstrates that effective branding can be achieved without traditional advertising methods, relying instead on personal engagement and trust-building [96][110] - The success of this brand illustrates that brands can thrive by addressing consumer needs and establishing credibility through direct communication [102][104] Group 7: The Future of Branding - The traditional methods of brand building, such as TV commercials, are becoming less effective as consumer behavior changes [113][115] - Companies must adapt to new communication strategies that resonate with modern consumers to remain relevant in the market [118]