Email marketing software

Buy or Write your own

[aspdaddy]

I'm thinking of buying software for email marketing. Has anyone used software for this and can let me know what things to look out for when deciding which one to buy.

What do people here generally go for - write your own or buy in a program?

Thanks.

[edit_g]

We're just writing our own using Coldfusion. Previously we used <snip- sticky me for it>, but we got tired of paying for the upgrades. While the program was low maintenance we wanted something which we could jump in and change if we wanted- something third-party won't let you do.

We've taken around 4 weeks in part time (when we have time) dev and now we are testing. It was worth doing it ourselves-but we do have very big lists- which has created a problem. The mechanics are quite straight-forward in .CFM, as I expect they would be in ASP or PHP, the main problems lie in bug finding and making sure that the mail gets through.

[emailtools]

Pros & cons of DIY:

+ "cheap" solution if time is no object
+ can customise the software
+ can write it for your specific platform
+ satisfaction of creating your own system
- need extensive programming knowledge

Pros & cons of licensed solution:

+ Fixed cost
+ Support when you need it most
+ Quicker time to implementation
+ Usablility & functionality based on multiple feedback
+ Ongoing development
+ Extra functionality compared to DIY
+ Security already considered
- Initial outlay more expensive

It will depend on your exact needs & budget as to which is the best solution for you. I recommend testing at least 3 products before you decide.

[google.com...]

If you decide to invest in software, some things to consider are:

Server Requirements: NT or Unix?

Support: What happens if you need help?

Single-user system or multi-user system?

Single list or multi-list system?

Essential features:

*Subscribe/unsubscribe processing
*Signup form generation
*Mail merge/personalisation
*Easy to use
*Bounce handling

And lastly...

Will you be able to use it easily? It's no good having all the bells & whistles if you don't find the software easy to use.

This is not a definitive list by any means, but I
hope it helps! :)