Mailing and Data Quality Software for Colleges and Universities

Students are one of the fastest growing demographics in the USA. Children of the baby boomers are now in college and even the baby boomers themselves are starting to return to college. The number of college students ages 40 to 64 has jumped by almost 20 percent to nearly 2 million in the past decade. Universities and educational institutions rely on mail-outs to reach these students for marketing, applications, billing and alumni support. College graduates are known to be the most transient demographic on record. The U.S. Postal Service estimates that over 43 million American individuals, families and businesses move each year.

Mailing is a large expense for universities and colleges. Incorrect or undeliverable addresses mean costs go up and responses go down. In fact, postage discounts can be reduced or cancelled by the postal facility if mass mailings include a large number of incorrect addresses.

Freelance Technologies (FTI) specializes in matching colleges and universities with the cost-effective data quality and mailing software from leading mailing and data quality vendors. FTI is unique because we offer a choice of mailing and data quality software and can help you to find the most appropriate software package to match the specific requirements of your institution. FTI offers mailing and data quality software from companies such as SAP, Melissa Data, BCC Software, Satori, Datatech Smartsoft, Loquate and Lorton Data. These software products range from small to enterprise level integrated solutions to web services designed for user friendly operation and optimum ROI. Benefit from our experience in mailing and data quality software to find the best software solution. We will match the price of any authorized dealer to give the BEST PRICE GUARANTEE, saving time and money.

Here are just a few ways Freelance Technologies (FTI) can help find the right data quality solution for managing small and large volumes of data and an expanding student population. The benefits of these software products for colleges and university systems are:

• Point of data entry error correction and verification


• More precise data for better analysis of student and alumni behavior


• Stronger student and alumni relationships through high quality service using reliable data


• More effective student and alumni interaction and optimized fulfillment processes


• Deploy effective, cost-efficient marketing campaigns through goal-directed address selection and correct, complete data for mailing campaigns

Mailing and Data Quality solutions can help you lower the costs of sales, marketing and recruitment, by cleaning your database of inaccurate or incomplete contact data. Some features include:

• Change-of-address updates (NCOA)


• PAVE Presort to save on postage


• Address Correction to add missing elements and correct spelling


• Address Standardization to ensure conformance and deliverability


• Data Validation to confirm that the address exists in the appropriate database as a delivery point


• Data Fielding & Parsing allows a seamless transactions in CRM systems


• Duplicate Detection (de-duping) makes duplicate records easier to find and consolidate

Address and data correction tools can help universities and colleges save on postage, materials and lost productivity by reducing returned mail and optimizing mailings for postal discounts. From tuition statements to alumni newsletters, it’s vital to stay on top of mailing lists and make sure send-outs arrive to the intended recipient. Here are just some of the solutions FTI offers:

Mailing Software

A-Qua Mailer™
A-Qua™ FTP
Bulk Mailer Standard
Bulk Mailer Professional
Bulk Mailer Business
MailRoom Toolkit Office
MailRoom Toolkit Architect
Mail Manager 2010
Mail Manager 2010 LE
Mail Manager Full Service
Mailers+4 Standard
Mailers+4 Professional
PostalSoft Business Edition
PostalSoft DeskTop Mailer
SmartAddresser 5
Smart Addressor 5 LT

Data Quality Software (Data parsing, fielding, genderizing, match consolidation, de-duplication, data extraction, resequencing, address correction and presorting)

Accumail Frameworks
Address Object
Data Qualtiy Suite
Geo-Coder Object
Global Locator
Loqate
Match Up
MailRoom Toolkit Architect
MailRoom Toolkit Office
MailRoom Toolkit Capture
Master Delivery Series
Name Object
Personator 4
Right Fielder
StyleList

Call today for a free consultation to find out more information about data quality software. Contact FTI at 888-970-9944 or via email at fti@freelancetech.com.

IMB- New Mail Barcode for Intelligent Use

Intelligent Mail barcode is the result of the Postal Service’s efforts to develop more robust codes capable of encoding more information, while minimizing the space used on the mailpiece. The Intelligent Mail barcode (IMB) offers:

• Continue earning lowest postal rates
• Better customer intelligence
• Free Address Change Service
• Visibility into the mailstream
• More effective returned mail processing
• Better scan rates and improved deliverability
• Better looking mail pieces (fewer barcodes)
• Delivery ConfirmationTM
• Access to new services

What are the real concerns facing Mailers?

Price. In todays market, the biggest concern is how much this will cost or save. The savings can add up if you mail in quantity. Early compliance for the Intelligent Mail barcode discount offers:

• $.01 per 1000 pieces of mail Standard
• $.03 per 1000 pieces of mail First class

For smaller mailers, there are other incentives. Indirect savings through a more efficient mailing system also save everyone money and peace of mind. As you consider how to implement Intelligent Mail in your company, you should recognize that every approach offers unique solutions:

• Saving space on the envelope means less product waste
• Less undeliverable mail means higher ROI
• A forward thinking green approach will give you marketing advantage

Why should mailers care about the IMB?

Two reasons: First, mailers must be using the Intelligent Mail barcode on their mail as of May 2011 in order to qualify for automation prices. Planet Code bar codes will no longer be in effect after the May 2011 deadline.

The second reason is the extra data and tracking capabilities available through IMB. Even basic IMB can track mail and predict delivery dates. Those using Full-Service IMB will receive mail feedback about address quality and get automated address correction information.

Find out More IMB Specifics with the Q&A IMB

Call Us Today for more Information about how IMB can help!

888.970.9944
fti@freelancetech.com

USPS Headed Toward Global Growth in Business

The Postal Service recently expanded its partnership with the U.S. Department of Commerce to help support the government’s newly established National Export Initiative (NEI). The initiative, unveiled by President Obama, calls for a doubling of exports over the next five years.

You also can save money by using a postal-qualified wholesaler to ship your materials overseas. A wholesaler combines mailings from other companies to get volume discounts and passes the savings on to its customers. In turn you can pass the savings on to your customers to help secure additional business.

International development will be achieved by providing foreign-market expertise to businesses interested in expanding their exports. The USPS Global Business team will work with the Commerce Department’s International Trade Administration and U.S. Commercial Service to provide free resources and tools to interested businesses. The first phase of this initiative will target businesses currently shipping to one foreign market through USPS.

Not only can you reap the benefits of overseas growth to expand your business interests, you can also add global clients to your database for your mail marketing.

Learn about global mailing opportunities!

CALL OR EMAIL US FOR MORE INFORMATION:

888-970-9944 (Toll-free)

Find us oonline at freelancetech.com

New Trend in Web Based Mailing Service

The latest demand for online web based mailing service has finally been met. Lorton Data introduces A-Qua Mailer™

A-Qua is the first mailing pre-sort software offered as a web service. Like the Microsoft online based web service, Amazon and Google app engines- different web services offer packages that add value, providing information, ease of use and access that give it a few strong selling points:

• High ROI
• Cost effective

FTI is right choice in mailing software knowledge to help you find out if Web Based Mailing Services are the perfect solution for your business requirements!

Mailing Software Choices at Best Rate Prices

What is Mailing Software and what is it good for?

Direct Business Mail allows you to market with a low-cost, tried and true method of gaining some ROI in this challenging economy:

• Cut costs with IMB and NCOA move update compliance
• Mailing Software helps manage your mailing lists
• Understand Bulk Mail requirements and regulations
• Save on Postal Rates with compliant solutions

If you find yourself mailing more than 1,000 pieces of mail at a time, utilizing your staff to process mail and are looking for a strategic way to reduce your postage costs - contact FTI for the best price in automation-compatible mailings to make sure that you pay the lowest postage rates possible. Contact Us Online or call 888-970-9944

Why would you go to a company that offers multiple brands?

We offer COMPARISON SHOPPING and LOWER PRICES

Since 1986, Freelance Technologies (FTI) hasprovided mailing software and data quality solutions to clients nationwide.

FTI is unique because we offer a choice of all mailing software packages and can provide on-site or online training that matches the specific requirements of your business!
All Leading Mailing Software andData Quality Software packages.

Check out our BRAND COMPARISON CHART

Over 24 Years in business, bringing you options, information and the best prices!

Enviromentally Friendly Mailing Solution MAIL.DAT

Eliminate the postal paper chase with environmentally-friendly Mail.DAT Modules. Learn More

Mail.dat is a relational database that uses a filing system to facilitate efficient and process-enhancing mailing communications. It contributes to important gains in efficiency, economy, and strategy enhancement and has become the standard embraced by a significant portion of the mailing industry and the US Postal Service.

The flexibility Mail.dat offers users to share those files that are necessary for their purpose, thus eliminating complicated options selection, making things easier for new users as well as streamlining more complex applications.

The US Postal Service accepts Mail.dat as an electronic representation of the mailing and as a replacement for the traditional hardcopy documentation. Mail.dat also accounts for variations that might be present in any USPS or Canada Post mailing.

Use Mail.DAT data format to allow the transmission of electronic Postal Service postal reports, for easier and faster postal acceptance and for a more streamlined payment process, as part of the PostalOne!® program.

Talk to your Freelance Technologies consultant today to find out what the best deals in mailing software and data quality control are for your business needs.

Call FTI: 888-970-9944 (Toll-free)
mailto:fti@freelancetech.com

Why Hold Off on IMB Implementation?

Ten Reasons Why Mailers Should Delay Implementing the Full Service Intelligent Mail Barcode
* from The Bennett Group

1. Not so much ROI benefit. The current incentives are very low…

2. Passing MERLIN performance verification at the time of mail acceptance may not save the cost of errors….read more

3.The Intelligent Mail barcode requires purchase of scanner equipment, additional software or enhancements of current software will need to be purchased … read more

4.ZIP+4 DPV encoding process produce an Intelligent Mail barcode that appears to be perfectly acceptable...read more

5.Postage statements must be submitted electronically through PostalOne! The GAO has concerns over the safety and reliability of the USPS to protect your security and money...read more

6.The USPS' PostalOne! system crash experienced by mailers from Friday, February 5, 2010 to Tuesday,February 9, 2010 "When the Postal Service's systems crash, it has a significant and costly impact on the mailers' ability to prepare and enter mail." from http://www.postcom.org/

7.Delays have been reported with the access to the FAST system to schedule appointments. http://www.presort.com/?p=230

8.If acceptance issues require rework of a mailing...read more

9.Postal acceptance personnel inducting Intelligent Mail barcode mailings need training and familiarity with new Intelligent Mail barcode mailing procedures. http://www.presort.com/?p=230

10.Programs such as ACS and Confirm with the Intelligent Mail barcode have USPS costs... read more

*** brought to you by Freelance Technologies

New Year Boost Sales- Decrease Cost

Is your New Year’s resolution to increase sales without increasing your costs?

A growing number of retailers are looking across the pond to find new customers and increase revenues. Most businesses in the U.S. are asking themselves the same kind of questions.

The international sale is far more complex and difficult than selling in the US. The result is an average of 17% increase in revenue. One secret is a new emerging trend of using international parcel forwarders.

Sellers benefit from the fraud free solutions and consumers benefit from the low cost of shipping through consolidation. The possible revenues are worth considering…

read more

Is your move update plan working for you?

Where is SANTA's MAIL going?

Making sure your mailings reach the right destination is crucial to your success.

NCOA Basics

Mandatory Move Update requirements with the USPS save you money. You must be in compliance by January 2010 to avoid paying heavy penalties!

Making sure your mail reaches the right destination has become even more important this year!

If you are not using NCOA, it is even more crucial to start now! If you are using NCOA, there are some important updates you will need to know about for your business needs this coming year. NCOA Information- so really Where DOES Santa's Mail Go?

Why is NCOA so important?

Starting January 2010, the USPS will begin mandatory regulations with Move Update requirements. If you are sending mailings without it, and reach a certain threshold, you will be required to pay as much as 20% penalties.

Find out more about how to be compliant before you get hit with stiff penalties by talking to your Freelance Consultant today. Call 888-970-9944 (Toll-free)

How to avoid paying penalties?

It’s important to have a software provider to stay on top of market trends and present to you the best information available about your options. NCOA requirements for your business can be complicated. We offer you the best resources for figuring out the conditions and rguations, helping you make the best business decision.

Choosing the best NCOA package can take valuable time and resources. Let us take the guesswork about different options out of the equation and provide honest insight about your personalized solution!

Intelligent Mail® barcode (IMB) Market Trends

Intelligent Mail® barcode (IMB) is one of the newer catchwords for mail solutions on the market but what does it mean for you?

Primary benefits include:

The Intelligent Mail barcode is the result of the Postal Service’s efforts to develop more robust codes capable of encoding more information, while minimizing the space used on the mailpiece. The Intelligent Mail barcode offers:

• Continue earning lowest postal rates
• Better customer intelligence
• Free Address Change Service
• Visibility into the mailstream
• More effective returned mail processing
• Better scan rates and improved deliverability
• Better looking mail pieces (fewer barcodes)
• Delivery ConfirmationTM
• Access to new services

What are the real concerns facing Mailers?

Price. In todays market, the biggest concern is how much this will cost or save. The savings can add up if you mail in quantity. Early compliance for the Intelligent Mail barcode discount offers:

$.01 per 1000 pieces of mail Standard

$.03 per 1000 pieces of mail First class

For smaller mailers, there are other incentives. Indirect savings through a more efficient mailing system also save everyone money and peace of mind. As you consider how to implement Intelligent Mail in your company, you should recognize that every approach offers unique solutions:

• Saving space on the envelope means less product waste
• Less undeliverable mail means higher ROI
• A forward thinking green approach will give you marketing advantage

Why should mailers care about the IMB?

Two reasons: First, mailers must be using the Intelligent Mail barcode on their mail as of May 2011 in order to qualify for automation prices. Planet Code bar codes will no longer be in effect after the May 2011 deadline. The second reason is the extra data and tracking capabilities available through IMB. Even basic IMB can track mail and predict delivery dates. Those using Full-Service IMB will receive mail feedback about address quality and get automated address correction information.

Facts about the INTELLIGENT MAIL® BARCODE (IMB)

To obtain the lowest automation prices on Letters and Flats, mailers must use the 65-bar Intelligent Mail® barcode on each mail piece, encoding the delivery point information plus four new fields including an assigned Mailer ID, the class of mail, an optional endorsement line, plus a mail piece sequence number that must remain unique for 45 days.

New 24-digit tray barcodes and 21-digit container barcodes.

Electronic documentation using Mail.dat,®Wizard Web Services or Postage Statement Wizard® will be required for the full-service option.

Must acquire Mailer ID number(s) from the Postal Service, encode all data into the barcode components and then graphically render this barcode on every mail piece, tray and container.

Program optimization means that you must:

• Create mechanisms to capture data provided by the USPS
• Link USPS data back to your source data
• Leverage this data to improve your business
• The USPS will provide mailers with two options: Full-Service and Basic.

So what does that mean?

The Basic option will have fewer requirements. The Full-Service option will provide access to more services (such as free ACS and Start the Clock information*) and will enable mailers to earn the greatest postal discounts as of the fall of 2009. The details below apply to the Full-Service option.

Where to find more information on the Intelligent Mail barcode...

FTI Q&A Breakdown of questions from the DMNews source:

• Are there other key dates that mailers should be aware of between now and the May 2011 deadline?
• Why should mailers care about the IMB?
• How does it work?
• How do mailers benefit from the Intelligent Mail barcode?
• What are the steps mailers should take to implement the basic IMB?
• What services use the Intelligent Mail barcode and when can I start using it?
• What is the difference between basic IMB and Full-Service IMB standards?
• What is the process for Full-Service IMB clients to qualify?
• What about automation prices?
• Am I required to use the Intelligent Mail barcode in lieu of POSTNET and PLANET codes?
• Where can I place the Intelligent Mail barcode?
• What are the dimensions of the barcode?
• Will I have problems passing MERLIN® program requirements?
• Will I need to complete CASS™ or MASS™ certification again?
• Tell me about the “start-the-clock” statistic and its significance for mailers?
• How many mailers are already using IMB?
• What should printers know about the IMB?
• What tools are available to help me or my provider adopt the Intelligent Mail barcode?
• Where can I find more information on the Intelligent Mail barcode?

For the latest information on the Intelligent Mail barcode, including the full dimension specification, visit the Rapid Information Bulletin Board System (RIBBS) website at:http://ribbs.usps.gov/OneCodeSolution/

Why is NCOA so important? NCOA Update - National Change of Address information

Move Update- Do you know where your mail is going?

Making sure your mail reaches the right destination has become even more important this year! The Move Update standard requires periodic matching of a mailer's address records with customer-filed change-of-address (COA) orders. Its goal is to reduce the number of mail pieces in a mailing that require additional handling for forwarding or return.

If you are not using NCOA, it is even more crucial to start now! If you are using NCOA, there are some important updates you will need to know about for your business needs this coming year.

Recently, a notice was filed with the Postal Regulatory Commission (PRC) to describe the new method that Business Mail Entry Units (BMEU) will use to determine whether or not to assess the $0.07 Move Update charge to First-Class Mail and Standard Mail pieces evaluated during acceptance

For consistency with the treatment of Standard mail, they will also apply the same effective date to First-Class Mail. Both classes will be assessed the additional postage charge on pieces determined at acceptance to have an error rate above a 30% tolerance level. Sample testing will be done for each mailing accepted at MERLIN locations, and the BMEUs will provide feedback to the mailer on the effectiveness of their Move Update process. The assessment applies only to those pieces in the mailing that are found to exceed the tolerance level, based on the sampling.

When will the new regulation take effect?

Starting January 2010, the USPS will begin mandatory regulations with Move Update requirements. If you are sending mailings without it, and reach a certain threshold, you will be required to pay as much as 20% penalties.

For example: if a mailing is found to have an error level of 50%, then 50% minus 30% (tolerance level) = 20% of the mailing that will is assessed $0.07 per piece. Any mailing that has five or fewer update errors is not assessed the fee, regardless of the percentage that is not updated.

How to avoid paying penalties?

It’s important to have a software provider to stay on top of market trends and present to you the best information available about your options. NCOA requirements for your business can be complicated. We offer you the best resources for figuring out the conditions and regulations, helping you make the best business decision.

Choosing the best NCOA package can take valuable time and resources. Let us take the guesswork about different options out of the equation and provide honest insight about your personalized solution!

Find out more about how to be compliant before you get hit with stiff penalties by talking to your Freelance Technologies consultant today. Call 888-970-9944 (Toll-free)

Why use free services to help get the best mailing software for your business needs?

Many people today ask why use a dealer when you can go straight to the manufacturer? In hard times, its actually one of the best solutions to have a company with vested interest in your success working for you... for free!

Why use Freelance Technologies, Inc?

The most important reason not to go straight to the manufacturer is that it doesn’t save you money! In fact, it may cost more. Here's why.

When you talk to a representative from a software vendor selling only one brand of software, you do not have options outside that product line. Their mission is to fit you to their product, whether or not it’s the best choice.

Talking to a freelance rep provides more of an overview about the different products on the market and makes a best match to your business needs. The savings is the same, and in many cases, better. Freelance tech reps know when and where the sales are, so may be able to find another line offering the same type of product at a better fit for your budget.

Do we really have your best interests at heart?

It’s important to have a software provider to stay on top of market trends and present to you the best information available about your options. Over the long term this will provide a value to your investment. Our business succeeds only if yours does.

Much like a travel agent, our revenue comes from the product, and you don’t pay the difference, the manufacturer does. So, why not take advantage of an added level of service at not cost to you!

Choosing a product can take valuable time and resources. Let us take the guesswork about different options out of the equation and provide honest insight about your personalized solution.


Freelance Technologies Inc. working since 1986 to bring you the best value in data quality and mailing software solutions.