Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How can I get my data to you for processing?

A: You can send CDs or DVDs, upload to our FTP server or attach the data to your email.

Q: My addresses are currently in Microsoft Access, FoxPro, dBase, WordPerfect, etc. Can you work with that?

A: Formats like Microsoft Access, Microsoft Works, FoxPro, dBase (database files ending in '.dbf') are generally not a problem.

Word-processing files like WordPerfect or Microsoft Word, as well as spreadsheet files like Excel may cause problems.

ASCII comma or tab delimited as well as ASCII fixed length files are often the best way to overcome compatibility issues when sending data.

Q: Can you analyze membership and donation data from our in-house database?

A: Yes we can as long as you can send your data to us in a format we can use. Comma or tab delimited files are preferred.

A good analysis really helps with your planning of future marketing efforts.

Q: Do you accept payments by credit card?

A: Yes, we accept VISA and MasterCard.

Q: What is merge/purge?

A: Data from different sources like 200,000 rented addresses on 20 cds are combined, or merged, for an advertising mailing. Then the duplications are eliminated, or purged.

Also, existing customers from your own database will probably get a different letter sent than prospects from the rented lists. A merge/purge will eliminate your customer names from the rented lists.

Q: What is a Letter Carrier Presort?

A: This is a special sort sequence required by mailing houses to prepare bulk mail in Canada. Have a look at this Letter Carrier Presort Sample.

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Questions? Please Contact Us

Tip of the day

What are fields and records?

A field contains one piece of information such as a zip code, last name, first name, company etc. A record is a collection of fields about someone or something. It is wise to create a field for each piece of information you wish to access individually. Plan your fields and be consistent in entering your information.

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How many fields should you have?

Not too many – not too few. Establish fields essential for mailings or whatever the purpose of your database. Think about what you will use this list for: direct mail, telemarketing, response tracking. Each field you use should be maintainable. Don’t fall into the trap of capturing every bit of information made available to you. It's not very useful to have information and not knowing whether it's current or out of date.