Outlook and Aol

[web_t]

I have noticed that when I am sending emails (using HTML format) (longer than 1 page) to anyone using @aol.com, they generally don't get the full email. The other options is to use text format, but than I am unable to use table within it.

Has anyone else encountered similar problem? or does anyone knows the solutions?

Thank you

[ancarett]

Good news is that with AOL 6.0, aol captives, er, users, can now receive HTML mail while using AOL as the reader. Bad news is that the vast number of AOL customers who haven't yet upgraded won't have a nice experience with HTML email.

I write a weekly newsletter for my site that is formatted in three distinct matters: plain text for those who prefer that, HTML for most of the rest and a special format just for AOL users.

I'll check and see if I can get the skinny on what formatting commands are used to prep the content for AOL delivery.

In the meantime, check out the AOL Unofficial Email FAQ, it is aimed at the AOL user, but still has some useful info: [members.aol.com...]

[Xoc]

HTML mail is a travesty that should be eradicated.

[web_t]

ancarett,

I guess, I found out a partial solution for people using aol.

I have used both outlook express and 2000, and also have an aol account. [got just to do trial and error experiments with aol mail]

Aol user will not receive a ranking report [keyword report by wpg], if it is more than 1 page [800x600], however, it does allows users to receive small tables.

Aol, users can receive HTML form email, but if we send them in Word 2000 format, it is going to be all messed up.

After few trial, I found out a way of successfully sending HTML format email to clients.

Outlook Express
don't use big tables, and if sending email in html format, make sure that the email is less than 2 pages.

Outlook 2000
From the options, select mail format setting to be HTML, but *don't select MS Word*, and rest is same at Outlook Express.

I don't know if this was of any use, but I believe that it might help someone like me who might be facing problems the way I was.

XOC,
Outlook or any other mail program, also has an option - "Plain Text Format".

Sorry, not be rude, but Company Image is also one of the main thing when one has to deal with Quality Customers. I personally won't mind going extra miles just to make sure that my clients are getting the best, and this also means, that when I send them an email, it should be easy to read and understand. Many times separate headers and nice HTML layout makes is more easier.

[bartek]

Have to agree, Xoc...
Email, by design, is to deliver plaintext. Period.

Most people I know, *hate* HTML mail. I.e My own client will automatically delete any email with HTML codes other than a website address (usually proves to be spam anyway).

Sorry for the somewhat off topic rant, web_t, but even the most successful list wouldn't dare to send HTML mail.

Depending on the crowd you deal with in your newsletter, this may make or break your effort.
my $0.02

[web_t]

bartek

To be honest, I don't run any newsletter. Have never thought about it [well I know my limits].

But in last 3 years, I never had a client who was offended, but instead, there are many who responded that they preferred HTML email over text emails. After all, they are spending hundreds and thousands or dollars per month, and they want me to give them the results in an easy format - after a lawyer might be really smart in a court, but when it comes to search engines and results they are many [almost all] times no better than a second grader.

[tedster]

I create one newsletter. After studying the area for a while I feel that the best way to send highly formatted information is to create pages on the website and keep the newsletter limited to summaries with links. This also creates a nice archive of content on the website.

HTML email is just too problematic. I stopped receiving it myself, and don't want our mailing list members to associate our venture with technical troubles, long downloads, and potential security hazards.

[Justin]

hmm... I dare to disagree with some of you. I send mostly html email to clients, for two main reasons. First, I believe it projects a more professional image; and since most average users don't know how to create html mail, I believe it adds to this consumer feeling of 'professionalism'. Second, it allows for company logos and color schemes etc, which helps customers remember your business. Compatibility among different email clients is another issue entirely. And to those who say no successful businesses use html email, I receive fully html formatted emails from Amazon twice a week, as well as uBid, eBay, Internet.com etc... can't get much bigger than those when it comes to Internet companies. Thanks for reading :)

Warm Regards,
Justin