G'day DP I am hoping that some DP members might be able to provide me with some advice on setting up a monthly newsletter. Background My father in-law has his own business, and he is looking to set up a new website, which will incorporate a monthly newsletter, that will be email to his clients and distribution list. He has asked me to look into it for him. I've listed a couple of questions that I am hoping people may be able to assist with: 1. What is the best application or template to develop a newsletter, considering that it will be circulated by email. Obviously these days, a word doc or pdf just isnt going to cut it. 2. We want to also include the monthly newsletter in an archive on the website. Is there an automated process for this, or will it have to be done manually? 3. As well as the newsletter, we are considering setting up a blog. Are these two things totally seperate, or should we be looking at doing one or the other. In a sense, would a blog achieve the same thing as a newsletter? 4. What do we use as an opt in feature on the website. Do you just use a simple form asking for their email address, or is there a certain program you need. Thanks for your help on this.
1. If you use services like AWeber, Constant Contact or FeedBlitz, you'll have access to dozens of templates. 2. Depending on the newsletter service you use, it may be automated or not. All of the aforementioned companies offer newsletter achiving (see here, here and here). 3. If were you, I'd try both. And no, a blog wouldn't necessarily achieve the same things as a newsletter. Blogs are good for attracting search engine traffic and for building a community around your site/company. Newsletters help you keep in touch with potential customers who might not take the time to visit your site or blog. 4. You use a form. Make it visible; if people don't see it, they'll never subscribe. On the other hand, do not exaggerate, i. e., avoid pop-ups, gigantic forms and the such. I hope this helps. Good luck!