This document discusses the rise of gossip and word-of-mouth marketing as traditional media declines. It notes that word-of-mouth and gossip are among the fastest growing marketing segments, expected to grow at a 27% compound annual rate. The document then provides definitions and benefits of gossip management, stating that brands can increase sales through effectively managing gossip. It outlines different approaches to creating and maintaining gossip, either by accident or by design, and notes that defining objectives, tracking sources, and media engineering are keys to successful gossip management.