Direct marketing involves using direct channels to reach customers without intermediaries. It can include direct mail, telemarketing, websites, mobile apps, and kiosks. Direct marketing differs from conventional marketing in that it deals with customers directly through interactive, one-to-one communications rather than indirectly through mass marketing channels. Successful direct marketing requires targeted customer databases, high-quality products, and sustained effort. Common forms of direct marketing include catalogue marketing, direct mail, telemarketing, home shopping, and direct selling through independent distributors.