To manage data retention for inactive data in data extensions, the best approach is to apply a Row Based Retention policy directly to each data extension. This method allows precise control over how long data is retained based on the creation or modification date of each row.
Row Based Retention: Set this on each data extension as it is configured. Specify that data should be cleared after 12 months of inactivity. This approach ensures that only data which has not been engaged with for the specified period is removed, thus optimizing data storage and maintaining compliance with data management policies.
Reference: https://help.salesforce.com/

For a Membership Renewal drip campaign with a master audience updated in real-time:
Filter Activities: Use Filter Activities to segment the master data extension based on the renewal date criteria-one month prior, one week prior, and on the renewal date.
Send Activities: Follow each Filter Activity with a Send Activity targeting the specifically filtered audiences, ensuring that each email is sent at the correct time relative to the member's renewal date.
Reference: Salesforce Marketing Cloud Automation Studio

To allow the business analyst at Northern Trail Outfitters to import contact lists, the role needed is one that grants permissions for import activities. Among the options:
B). Add Marketing Cloud Security AdministratorThis role would provide the analyst with the necessary permissions to manage data imports. The Marketing Cloud Security Administrator role includes broader permissions that encompass data management and security settings, which are required for importing contact lists.
Reference: Salesforce Help - User Roles and Permissions

To limit the distribution of Marketing Cloud tracking data via email to only those within the ntoretail.com domain:
Add a Domain to the Export Email Whitelist: Configure the settings to include 'ntoretail.com' in the export email whitelist. This ensures that only email addresses from this domain can receive exported data.
Enforce Export Email Whitelist: Activate this setting to strictly enforce the whitelist during data exports, preventing any non-whitelisted domains from receiving tracking data.
Reference: Salesforce Marketing Cloud Security Settings

A functionality unique to Journey Builder that is not available in Automation Studio:
Wait Activities: Journey Builder provides the flexibility to configure wait times based not just on a fixed duration but also until a specific date or time, which is essential for personalizing the timing of customer interactions based on individual behaviors or milestones.
Reference: Salesforce Marketing Cloud Journey Builder