Optimus Template

We are trying out a new format for the newsletter and would like your feedback. If you haven't received the newsletter yet, you can retrieve it here:Newsletter Archive

There are several advantages and disadvantages to this new format compared to the old format.

Advantages:

• Do not need to rely on someone having Microsoft Publisher or other desktop publishing software.
• Able to directly insert website content (calendar events, articles, etc.) directly into the newsletter.
• Encourages members to visit the website more often, which in turn will hopefully encourage more participation by the membership.
• Assuming more people are willing to receive email newsletters, significantly reduces publishing / mailing costs for the club.

Disadvantages:

• Not as printer/mail friendly. There are still folks out there who prefer to receive a mailed newsletter. While we could print out the HTML newsletter and mail it, it would limit our ability to use 'Read More' links, etc.
• Other?

Needless to say, there are probably many more advantages and disadvantages that can be added to the list. I would just like to get the conversation started. If enough people prefer the old format, we can alway change back.

I think it's fantastic. Razor sharp, convenient, and dosen't waste paper and clog up my already messy desk.
Thanks for you effort
Craig Blodgett

Hi,


I just got my email for the first updated newletter today, and it really worked out good. I like how it integrates with the website and is well organized. I think I will still be getting my mailed version or no?

Thanks,

Paul

For now the plan is to not mail out the newsletter anymore... to do so would require having two versions of the newsletter. That's because the printed version would need to display the full articles (as opposed to the abbreviated articles with the 'Read More' links in the new format). If there is enough demand for a printed newsletter we'll probably abandon the current format altogether.

You've probably noticed that the new format is very similar to the various commercial newsletters that you may receive from time to time... the first half of the articles are essentially 'teasers' to encourage folks to go to the website. For those of you who already visit the website often, this may seem redundant. But many members may not visit often and the emailed newsletter essentially offers a reminder of upcoming events and encourages folks to go to the website where we hope to have a more interactive collaboration among the group.

TimBurns wrote:



Ok, thanks for the info Tim!


Paul