A mail merge is the integration of data contained in a spreadsheet, into a template which could be a letter, address block of an envelope, postcard, or booklet. A mail merge enables you to merge variable data so that each printed piece is personalized and customized based on your dataset. This can be a very powerful tool to directly target individuals or print and mail personalized and confidential information.
Microsoft Word and Microsoft Excel are popular tools to run mail merges, but when using them there are often issues with spacing and organization of the merge and Microsoft Word mail merges also have their limitations.
At Action Mail we prefer to use PDF mail merge software which allows much more control over the merge. Our software enables us to add variable images, change the format based on the data, include variable phrases with multiple variable data, format the artwork so that all art and text fits into one page, ensure that variable text does not truncate, and the possibilities are endless.
Once the data has been integrated and merged the mail merge and with variable data can be printed. Action Mail offers variable data printing in both color and black and white and the variable data can be printed on a number of substrates and media.
Mail merges are typically used for letters but we run mail merges for postcards, envelopes, flyers, and letters as well. The use of a mail merge allows content to be personalized to the specific recipient which dramatically increases response rates.
Some examples of the mail merges including, merging statement data, personalizing letters, customizing non-profit donations requests based on previous giving data, customizing offers, personalizing the content letter based on previous purchase data. The possibilities are endless. If you have the data Action Mail can create a dynamic personalized letter, postcard, envelope or flyer for your next campaign. Even if you do not have the necessary data Action Mail can help append data for you.
Personalizing your direct mail campaign will make your campaign relevant, enticing, and eye catching which will drive response and return on investment.