2009 Direct List Tidbits

Dear Customer,

The first quarter of the year has flown by and we've all seen many changes in our country, our industry and our personal lives.

In the midst of this change, we've listened to you and the theme is clear, "How do we mail smarter and improve the response in our direct mail programs?"

Whenever challenges present themselves, opportunities await on the other side. We hope some of the suggestions below will help you get through the challenges. Look for more interesting services from DLT to help you in the near future.

Here’s hoping you’re enjoying the opportunities with us!

Corine Havican

USPS 'Dealing with Change' & May 11 Rate Increases

Yes, the USPS is facing its most challenging year in 2009, with dramatically reduced mail volumes and new rate increases on May 11. They’re even featuring a first: a summer sale!

The links below take you to documents that will keep you updated on USPS changes.

How USPS Deals with Change in 2009 (Courtesy of MFSA, Presentation from April 21, 2009 )
Review of May 11 Pricing Change
Summer Sales Promotion: On May 1 USPS filed a notice with the Postal Regulatory Commission for a Summer Sale. The sale - which runs from July 1 through September 30, 2009 - will provide a 30% reduction in postage for qualifying Standard Mail customers mailing letters and flats. This offer is subject to review by the Commission for up to 45 days following May 1.

So, what can you do? - Focus on keeping your lists clean, highly deliverable and help your customers mail smarter in 2009.

EDUCATION TIDBIT #43
How to Improve the Response of Your Mailing List &
Mail Smarter in 2009

To ensure your lists are accurate with the highest deliverability and targeted to your “best prospects”, follow these steps:

1. Perform data hygiene on your customer’s lists to increase response and ROI:

Correct city names, and zip codes
Eliminate non-existent addresses
Remove duplicates
Allow your customers to "opt out & get off" your mailing list. If they don't want to receive direct mail from you, honor their wishes. Mail fewer pieces and improve your response.

2. Use additional selections on your prospect list to improve targeting and eliminate waste

3. Test a different type of list to evaluate what works best for your program

4. Use mapping to target your geographic audience

5. Use Customer Insight™ - our NEW Customer Profile Analysis Tool to analyze your current customer list to identify your “Best Prospects”, then you can mail to them. This tool will help you mail smarter in 2009. Check out some Sample Reports:

For more information, download data card Customer Insight", or just call us at 888.772.6947, or email us.

Your List Expert

Corine Havican
Email me
714.772.3282 x 102