Serj,
A couple of comments:
* The services which require a monthly fee are web based.
* You can avoid a monthly fee by purchasing a license to use a script and hosting it on your server or basing the software on your PC.
(There are sites were you can get a script or software for free.)
However, before deciding whether to go with hosting your own list server/auto-response script, basing the software on your PC, or using a third party provider, there are a couple of issues.
First, you need to ask yourself these questions:
* Am I technically inclined?
* Do I feel comfortable with handling the script and software management issues yourself?
* If I decide to do the mailings from my PC, what issues will I have with my internet access provider?
* When I do my own mailings, either from my site or from my PC, do I understand I will be responsible to deal directly with all spam complaints, etc., etc?
* In doing my own mailings, do I appreciate I will have to stay up todate on how to properly configure my server to meet the white list requirements of the various internet access services, ensure delivery, etc., etc.?
If you feel uncomfortable with these issues and would prefer to let someone else handle the nitty gritty stuff, then you want to use an email service provider.
Once you answer these questions, then decide on the appropriate direction.
In today's marketing environment I would opt to use a third party provider, but you may feel comfortable in dealing with the issues I referenced.
If you decide to do the mailings from your own host, the software of choice seems to be
Autoresponseplus.
I have not used this service myself and therefore can only pass on the comments of others.
Considering a web based service, two choices:
*
Aweber
(This is the lead alternative service I recommend, if someone does not need the complete suite of tools, including a shopping cart, which comes with Ultimate Marketers Resource. There are others, but I don't know your specific requirements.)
*
Ultimate Marketers Resource
(This is the service I presently use.)
Of course, there are many other options including downloading a free script and hosting it on your server, or downloading free software and doing the mailings from your PC.
One thing though - think about were you want your business to be in 1 to 2 years time. Then think about the hassle of moving your list. This is in part why people recommend you spend a few dollars now for the long term.
I find it interesting that most marketers with large mailing lists use a third party provider. Why? It allows one to focus on the business at hand.
Trusting these comments are of assistance.
Kind regards,
John Glube
Toronto, Canada
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