Which of the following is a key component of the marketing mix?

Pricing strategies are indeed a key component of the marketing mix, often referred to as one of the "Four Ps" of marketing, which also include product, place (distribution), and promotion. Pricing strategies involve determining the right price for a product or service that reflects its perceived value while remaining competitive in the market and achieving the company's financial objectives. This element is crucial because it not only affects profitability but also influences customer perceptions and demand.

In contrast, sales forecasting is primarily a predictive tool used to estimate future sales and is not one of the core elements of the marketing mix. Human resources management pertains to managing people within an organization, which, while important for overall business success, does not directly relate to marketing strategies. Distribution partnerships involve logistics and relationship management that are important for getting the product to the consumer, but they fall under the broader category of distribution or place within the marketing mix, rather than being an independent element.