Still trying to get that discussion moved to contract. I hope to connect to the sales director as I don't want to have to pay an arm and a leg of "implementation" to get the Standard Plus level vs. Growth Plus. Standard Plus has some additional features we might not use out of the box -- but would/should upgrade too in 90-180 days.
We'll see how they roll.
Showing posts with label Vendor Communication. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Vendor Communication. Show all posts
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Configuration Gyrations on WP Mu
So it has taken the better part of two days to get things on the server straightened out. The original install was quick but flawed and we needed the tech support folks at the hosting service to really understand the problem/s.
By the end of the day today they had gotten it 90% of the way there and then after I was busy tweaking -- some plug-in busted and is causing a minor issue. I need c-panel access to the server as my only way to do anything is through the WP Mu Admin side -- and both to edit bad *.php files and also to manually upload and troubleshoot some themes and plug-ins.
Went ahead and had to purchase access to MP Mu Dev site for 3 months/$159 which gave me access to several new pay plug-ins one of which we really needed to get the "Blog Network" side of things running. They also offer tech support and advice live and on forums in addition to the plug-ins and templates.
I also went ahead and spent $65 to license the "Grace" template as the starting point of St. A's site. It is traditional but it seems to fit closest to the aesthetics and the functionality we are looking for in a template. It should do until we get a real design done by a designer.
So there are 4 unresolved issues in with the Alchemy tech support and hopefully those will be solved ASAP tomorrow so I can get Grace installed and I can get working on getting content and information into and organized on the new site.
By the end of the day today they had gotten it 90% of the way there and then after I was busy tweaking -- some plug-in busted and is causing a minor issue. I need c-panel access to the server as my only way to do anything is through the WP Mu Admin side -- and both to edit bad *.php files and also to manually upload and troubleshoot some themes and plug-ins.
Went ahead and had to purchase access to MP Mu Dev site for 3 months/$159 which gave me access to several new pay plug-ins one of which we really needed to get the "Blog Network" side of things running. They also offer tech support and advice live and on forums in addition to the plug-ins and templates.
I also went ahead and spent $65 to license the "Grace" template as the starting point of St. A's site. It is traditional but it seems to fit closest to the aesthetics and the functionality we are looking for in a template. It should do until we get a real design done by a designer.
So there are 4 unresolved issues in with the Alchemy tech support and hopefully those will be solved ASAP tomorrow so I can get Grace installed and I can get working on getting content and information into and organized on the new site.
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Bulk Mail H*ll -- Can someone
http://pe.usps.com/businessmail101/getstarted/bulkMail.htm
What is Bulk Mail? Is it Right for You?
The term "bulk mail" refers to larger quantities of mail prepared for mailing at reduced postage. In Business Mail 101, the term "bulk mail" means commercial First-Class Mail and advertising mail (called "Standard Mail" by the Postal Service). Commercial prices are available for other classes of mail, too. The Postal Service uses the terms "bulk" and "presorted" interchangeably.
Bulk prices are discounted from "single-piece". "Single-piece" means that you pay the full postage price; when you put a stamp on a letter, you're paying the single-piece postage. Many mailers pay single-piece postage even though they are doing large mailings. Why? Because they don’t want to do any extra preparation work—they don’t have the time, or it’s just not cost effective for their business. Business Mail 101 will help you make smart choices about your own mail to determine if commercial prices are right for you.
What Are Commercial Prices?
The Postal Service offers discounts for bulk mailings because you do some of the work that otherwise would have to be done by the Postal Service (for example, sorting the mail by ZIP Code or transporting the mail to a different postal facility). Everyone benefits from this "work-sharing." Mailers make an investment in time and technology, and the Postal Service’s costs are reduced and you pay less postage.
In order to mail at commercial prices, you need to:
Get a mailing permit (permission to mail) and pay an annual mailing fee.
Pay postage using one of several convenient methods: precanceled stamps, postage meter, or permit imprint.
Make smart choices about the size, shape, and weight of your mailpiece.
Ensure that your addresses are accurate.
Presort the mailpieces (separate or sort your mail by ZIP Code).
Take your mail to the Post Office where you hold your mailing permit.
The choices you make can result in significant postage savings. Click here for a discussion about the postage prices you'll pay.
Minimum Quantities for a Bulk Business Mailing
To qualify for certain postage discounts, you must mail a minimum number of pieces:
500 pieces for First-Class Mail.
200 pieces (or 50 pounds of mail) for Standard Mail.
50 pieces for Parcel Select.
300 pieces for Presorted or Carrier Route Bound Printed Matter.
300 pieces for Library Mail.
300 pieces for Media Mail (formerly called "book rate").
=======================================================================
Current Pricing:
First Class
Letter & Large Postcard - $0.44
Postcard (Small) - $0.28
First Class Commercial/Business:
Standard Mail Nonprofit
LETTERS—CARRIER ROUTE & AUTOMATION
No Entry Discount - Saturation - Carrier Route - $0.110
DSCF - Saturation - Carrier Route - $0.067
LETTERS - NONAUTOMATION
No Entry Discount - Machinable - AADC - $0.155
DSCF - Machinable - AADC - $0.112
No Entry Discount - Nonmachinable - 5-Digit - $0.229
DSCF - Nonmachinable - 5-Digit - $0.186
=======================================================================
--Applying for a MAILING permit is different from applying for nonprofit mailing privileges. If you are a nonprofit mailer, first decide how you want to pay postage. Then apply for your mailing permit. Then apply for nonprofit mailing privileges. A postal employee can help you make sure you're taking the right steps in the right order.
=======================================================================
Definitions:
Automation–Compatible Mail - Mail that is prepared according to USPS standards so it can be scanned and processed by automated mail processing equipment such as a barcode sorter.
Presort - The process by which a mailer prepares mail so that it is sorted to the finest extent required by the standards for the price claimed. Generally, presort is performed sequentially, from the lowest (finest) level to the highest level, to those destinations specified by standard and is completed at each level before the next level is prepared. Not all presort levels are applicable to all mailings.
Presorted First-Class Mailing - A nonautomation category for a mailing that consists of at least 500 addressed mailpieces and is sorted and prepared according to USPS standards. This mail does not bear a barcode.
Presorted Mail - A form of mail preparation, required to bypass certain postal operations, in which the mailer groups pieces in a mailing by ZIP Code or by carrier route or carrier walk sequence (or other USPS–recommended separation).
Presorted Prices - A discounted price. In exchange for this lower postage price, mailers must sort their mail into containers based on the ZIP Code destinations on the mail.
=======================================================================
Mail Rate calculator:
http://dbcalc.usps.gov/CalculatorSetPage.aspx
Nonprofit Enhanced Carrier Route Standard Mail allows nonprofit organizations to save even more for bulk mailings weighing less than 16 ounces. All you have to do is sort mailpieces to the individual carrier routes within a 5-digit ZIP Code™.
Standard Mail requires a minimum of 200 pieces or 50 pounds per mailing. It can not be used for sending personal correspondence, handwritten or typewritten letters, or bills and statements of account. Prices are based on weight, shape, preparation, and entry. Automation prices are lower than nonautomation prices.
-------------------
http://pe.usps.gov/text/qsg300/Q240b.htm
Applying for a Permit Imprint
---------------------
http://pe.usps.com/businessmail101/postage/applyPermit.htm
How to Apply for a Permit Imprint
1). Download a copy of Form 3615, Mailing Permit Application and Customer Profile. Copies are available from your local business mail entry unit or Post Office.
2). Take your completed Form 3615 to your local business mail entry unit or Post Office.
Tip: Most permit imprint numbers are given out through the main post office in your area, which may not be the place where you’ll take your mail. Before heading out, call your local Post Office and ask where you need to take your application. Use the Post Office locator to find phone numbers and addresses.
3). At the post office, submit your Form 3615 and pay the permit imprint application fee ($185). This fee covers the costs of setting up an account in your organization’s name. This is a one-time only fee, and it is separate from the annual mailing fee.
----------------
http://pe.usps.com/businessmail101/postage/permitImprint.htm
Permit Imprint
Permit imprint is the most popular and convenient way to pay for postage, especially for high volume mailings. Instead of using precanceled stamps or a postage meter, the mailer prints postage information in the upper right corner of the mailpiece. This postage block is called an "indicia." Here’s a sample of what a permit imprint indicia looks like. The indicia is printed onto each mailpiece.
To use permit imprint, you set up a postage account (called an "advance deposit account") at the Post Office where you’ll be depositing your mail. When you bring your mailing to the Post Office the total postage is deducted from your account. It’s like having a checking account at the Post Office.
------------------
http://pe.usps.com/businessmail101/postage/precanceled.htm
Precanceled Stamps
Precanceled stamps are special stamps that come in small denominations and are specifically for Presorted First-Class Mail and Standard Mail mailings. Mailers apply these special stamps to envelopes at a lower postage price (say, 10 cents) and pay the difference when they drop off the mail at the Post Office. The business mail entry unit clerk can help you fill out your postage statement to calculate how much you still owe. You can pay that difference with a check, a meter strip, or through a postage account.
Precanceled stamps are available in four denominations:
25 cents for Presorted First-Class Mail only
15 cents for Presorted First-Class Postcards only
10 cents for Regular Standard Mail only
5 cents for Nonprofit Standard Mail only
-------------------
http://pe.usps.com/businessmail101/postage/precanceledPermit.htm
How to Apply For a Permit to Use Precanceled Stamps
Get a copy of Form 3615, Mailing Permit Application and Customer Profile. Copies are available from your business mail entry unit or local Post Office.
2. Fill out Form 3615. Check the box that says "Precanceled Stamp Authorization."
3. Turn in the completed Form 3615 at your local business mail entry unit or Post Office. There is no application fee to get a permit to use precanceled stamps. Before heading out, call your local Post Office and ask where you need to take your application. Use the Post Office locator to find phone numbers and addresses. You don’t need to fill out a new form, and there is no fee to amend Form 3615.
--------------------
http://pe.usps.com/businessmail101/postage/tipsPrecanceled.htm
Tips for Using Precanceled Stamps
Use these tips to mail successfully with precanceled stamps:
Some mailers believe that envelopes with stamps get noticed and opened before other pieces of mail. You can use that to your advantage by using precanceled stamps to send your promotional messages.
Using precanceled stamps on your mail is an easy way to get started with bulk mail. Many first-time mailers use precanceled stamps.
Precanceled stamps come preprinted with the required rate markings. First-Class Mail precanceled stamps say "PRESORTED FIRST-CLASS." Standard Mail precanceled stamps say "PRSRT STD" or "NONPROFIT ORG."
Postage Statement: When preparing your mail, use the "postage affixed" postage statement (because you’ve already put some postage (but not all of it) on your mailpiece). The postage statement will help you figure out how much postage you still owe when you drop off your mail at the post office.
Your mailpiece MUST have a complete domestic return address, preferably in the upper left corner.
Some mailers establish an advance deposit account to pay the postage they still owe on their precanceled stamp mailings.
Mailpieces bearing precanceled stamps must be brought to the post office where you hold your permit. They CANNOT be dropped in a collection box or given to a carrier.
There are self-adhesive precanceled stamps.
=======================================================================
http://pe.usps.com/businessmail101/misc/nonprofitApplication.htm
How to Apply for Authorization to Mail at Nonprofit Rates
Get a copy of Form 3624, Application to Mail at Nonprofit Standard Mail Rates. The form also is available from your postmaster or local business mail entry unit.
Form 3624, Application to Mail at Nonprofit Standard Mail Rates.
Fill out Form 3624. Lines 1-8 and Lines 10-17 are self-explanatory. For Line 9, check the category (ONLY ONE) under which you are applying.
Required documentation. You must submit some documentation with your application to support your claim for nonprofit rates:
Formative papers—e.g., articles of incorporation, constitution, or charter.
IRS letter of exemption from payment of federal income tax.
Other evidence of nonprofit status—e.g., a financial statement prepared by an independent auditor substantiating organization’s nonprofit status (statement must include balance sheets, notes, etc.).
......
http://pe.usps.com/businessmail101/postage/annualMailingFee.htm
Annual Mailing Fee
Regardless of the method of postage payment you chose, if you mail in bulk you must pay an annual mailing fee (sometimes called a "bulk mailing fee"). This fee is separate from any other application fees or account deposits. You can pay via cash or check at the Post Office or BMEU. There is no special form to fill out.
Paying the annual mailing fee gives you permission to mail a certain class of mail from a certain postal facility for 365 days. For instance, you would need two different permits to mail First-Class Mail and Standard Mail bulk mailings from the same office.
You cannot mail in bulk until you pay your annual mailing fee.
-----
http://pe.usps.com/businessmail101/postage/mailingPermit.htm
Mailing Permit
A mailing permit is permission to use a certain postage payment method for bulk and discounted mailings. Instructions for applying for a mailing permit are included under each method of payment.
There is no fee to apply for a permit to mail with precanceled stamps or a postage meter.
There is a fee to apply for a permit to mail with permit imprint. This one-time only fee pays for setting up your permit imprint account. The permit imprint application fee is due when you turn in your application for a permit imprint.
You must hold a permit and pay an annual mailing fee at every Post Office where you want to enter and pay for your mail.
-----
http://pe.usps.com/text/qsg300/Q703.htm
Eligibility Overview (703.1.0)
Only qualified political committees, voting registration officials, and organizations that meet specific standards for qualified nonprofit organizations and that have received specific authorization from the USPS may mail eligible matter at the Nonprofit Standard Mail prices. Except for previously accepted mailings being deposited under a plant-verified drop shipment program (705.15.0), nonprofit mailings presented for USPS acceptance must include a properly prepared mailing statement bearing the national authorization number of the approved nonprofit organization. Pieces mailed at the Nonprofit Standard Mail prices must meet the general standards for Standard Mail (243.2.0 for letters, 343.2.0 for flats, 443.2.0 for parcels) and the standards specific to any other discount or price claimed.
Qualified organization: the organization is not organized for profit, and none of its net income inures to the benefit of any private stockholder or individual. Types of organizations that may qualify (703.1.2): religious, educational, scientific, philanthropic, agricultural, labor, veterans, and fraternal. Voting registration officials and national and state political committees may be qualified without regard to their nonprofit status.
Ineligible nonprofit organizations (703.1.4): service, social, and hobby clubs; citizens' and civic improvement associations; state, county, and municipal governments are generally not eligible.
......
What is Bulk Mail? Is it Right for You?
The term "bulk mail" refers to larger quantities of mail prepared for mailing at reduced postage. In Business Mail 101, the term "bulk mail" means commercial First-Class Mail and advertising mail (called "Standard Mail" by the Postal Service). Commercial prices are available for other classes of mail, too. The Postal Service uses the terms "bulk" and "presorted" interchangeably.
Bulk prices are discounted from "single-piece". "Single-piece" means that you pay the full postage price; when you put a stamp on a letter, you're paying the single-piece postage. Many mailers pay single-piece postage even though they are doing large mailings. Why? Because they don’t want to do any extra preparation work—they don’t have the time, or it’s just not cost effective for their business. Business Mail 101 will help you make smart choices about your own mail to determine if commercial prices are right for you.
What Are Commercial Prices?
The Postal Service offers discounts for bulk mailings because you do some of the work that otherwise would have to be done by the Postal Service (for example, sorting the mail by ZIP Code or transporting the mail to a different postal facility). Everyone benefits from this "work-sharing." Mailers make an investment in time and technology, and the Postal Service’s costs are reduced and you pay less postage.
In order to mail at commercial prices, you need to:
Get a mailing permit (permission to mail) and pay an annual mailing fee.
Pay postage using one of several convenient methods: precanceled stamps, postage meter, or permit imprint.
Make smart choices about the size, shape, and weight of your mailpiece.
Ensure that your addresses are accurate.
Presort the mailpieces (separate or sort your mail by ZIP Code).
Take your mail to the Post Office where you hold your mailing permit.
The choices you make can result in significant postage savings. Click here for a discussion about the postage prices you'll pay.
Minimum Quantities for a Bulk Business Mailing
To qualify for certain postage discounts, you must mail a minimum number of pieces:
500 pieces for First-Class Mail.
200 pieces (or 50 pounds of mail) for Standard Mail.
50 pieces for Parcel Select.
300 pieces for Presorted or Carrier Route Bound Printed Matter.
300 pieces for Library Mail.
300 pieces for Media Mail (formerly called "book rate").
=======================================================================
Current Pricing:
First Class
Letter & Large Postcard - $0.44
Postcard (Small) - $0.28
First Class Commercial/Business:
Letter & Large Postcard - $0.335 (Automation + Zip5)
Postcard (Small) - $0.205 (Automation + Zip5)
Letter & Large Postcard - $0.414 (Presort + Zip5)
Postcard (Small) - $0.245 (Presort + Zip5)
Standard Mail Nonprofit
LETTERS—CARRIER ROUTE & AUTOMATION
No Entry Discount - Saturation - Carrier Route - $0.110
DSCF - Saturation - Carrier Route - $0.067
LETTERS - NONAUTOMATION
No Entry Discount - Machinable - AADC - $0.155
DSCF - Machinable - AADC - $0.112
No Entry Discount - Nonmachinable - 5-Digit - $0.229
DSCF - Nonmachinable - 5-Digit - $0.186
=======================================================================
--Applying for a MAILING permit is different from applying for nonprofit mailing privileges. If you are a nonprofit mailer, first decide how you want to pay postage. Then apply for your mailing permit. Then apply for nonprofit mailing privileges. A postal employee can help you make sure you're taking the right steps in the right order.
=======================================================================
Definitions:
Automation–Compatible Mail - Mail that is prepared according to USPS standards so it can be scanned and processed by automated mail processing equipment such as a barcode sorter.
Presort - The process by which a mailer prepares mail so that it is sorted to the finest extent required by the standards for the price claimed. Generally, presort is performed sequentially, from the lowest (finest) level to the highest level, to those destinations specified by standard and is completed at each level before the next level is prepared. Not all presort levels are applicable to all mailings.
Presorted First-Class Mailing - A nonautomation category for a mailing that consists of at least 500 addressed mailpieces and is sorted and prepared according to USPS standards. This mail does not bear a barcode.
Presorted Mail - A form of mail preparation, required to bypass certain postal operations, in which the mailer groups pieces in a mailing by ZIP Code or by carrier route or carrier walk sequence (or other USPS–recommended separation).
Presorted Prices - A discounted price. In exchange for this lower postage price, mailers must sort their mail into containers based on the ZIP Code destinations on the mail.
=======================================================================
Mail Rate calculator:
http://dbcalc.usps.gov/CalculatorSetPage.aspx
Nonprofit Enhanced Carrier Route Standard Mail allows nonprofit organizations to save even more for bulk mailings weighing less than 16 ounces. All you have to do is sort mailpieces to the individual carrier routes within a 5-digit ZIP Code™.
Standard Mail requires a minimum of 200 pieces or 50 pounds per mailing. It can not be used for sending personal correspondence, handwritten or typewritten letters, or bills and statements of account. Prices are based on weight, shape, preparation, and entry. Automation prices are lower than nonautomation prices.
-------------------
http://pe.usps.gov/text/qsg300/Q240b.htm
Applying for a Permit Imprint
---------------------
http://pe.usps.com/businessmail101/postage/applyPermit.htm
How to Apply for a Permit Imprint
1). Download a copy of Form 3615, Mailing Permit Application and Customer Profile. Copies are available from your local business mail entry unit or Post Office.
2). Take your completed Form 3615 to your local business mail entry unit or Post Office.
Tip: Most permit imprint numbers are given out through the main post office in your area, which may not be the place where you’ll take your mail. Before heading out, call your local Post Office and ask where you need to take your application. Use the Post Office locator to find phone numbers and addresses.
3). At the post office, submit your Form 3615 and pay the permit imprint application fee ($185). This fee covers the costs of setting up an account in your organization’s name. This is a one-time only fee, and it is separate from the annual mailing fee.
----------------
http://pe.usps.com/businessmail101/postage/permitImprint.htm
Permit Imprint
Permit imprint is the most popular and convenient way to pay for postage, especially for high volume mailings. Instead of using precanceled stamps or a postage meter, the mailer prints postage information in the upper right corner of the mailpiece. This postage block is called an "indicia." Here’s a sample of what a permit imprint indicia looks like. The indicia is printed onto each mailpiece.
To use permit imprint, you set up a postage account (called an "advance deposit account") at the Post Office where you’ll be depositing your mail. When you bring your mailing to the Post Office the total postage is deducted from your account. It’s like having a checking account at the Post Office.
------------------
http://pe.usps.com/businessmail101/postage/precanceled.htm
Precanceled Stamps
Precanceled stamps are special stamps that come in small denominations and are specifically for Presorted First-Class Mail and Standard Mail mailings. Mailers apply these special stamps to envelopes at a lower postage price (say, 10 cents) and pay the difference when they drop off the mail at the Post Office. The business mail entry unit clerk can help you fill out your postage statement to calculate how much you still owe. You can pay that difference with a check, a meter strip, or through a postage account.
Precanceled stamps are available in four denominations:
25 cents for Presorted First-Class Mail only
15 cents for Presorted First-Class Postcards only
10 cents for Regular Standard Mail only
5 cents for Nonprofit Standard Mail only
-------------------
http://pe.usps.com/businessmail101/postage/precanceledPermit.htm
How to Apply For a Permit to Use Precanceled Stamps
Get a copy of Form 3615, Mailing Permit Application and Customer Profile. Copies are available from your business mail entry unit or local Post Office.
2. Fill out Form 3615. Check the box that says "Precanceled Stamp Authorization."
3. Turn in the completed Form 3615 at your local business mail entry unit or Post Office. There is no application fee to get a permit to use precanceled stamps. Before heading out, call your local Post Office and ask where you need to take your application. Use the Post Office locator to find phone numbers and addresses. You don’t need to fill out a new form, and there is no fee to amend Form 3615.
--------------------
http://pe.usps.com/businessmail101/postage/tipsPrecanceled.htm
Tips for Using Precanceled Stamps
Use these tips to mail successfully with precanceled stamps:
Some mailers believe that envelopes with stamps get noticed and opened before other pieces of mail. You can use that to your advantage by using precanceled stamps to send your promotional messages.
Using precanceled stamps on your mail is an easy way to get started with bulk mail. Many first-time mailers use precanceled stamps.
Precanceled stamps come preprinted with the required rate markings. First-Class Mail precanceled stamps say "PRESORTED FIRST-CLASS." Standard Mail precanceled stamps say "PRSRT STD" or "NONPROFIT ORG."
Postage Statement: When preparing your mail, use the "postage affixed" postage statement (because you’ve already put some postage (but not all of it) on your mailpiece). The postage statement will help you figure out how much postage you still owe when you drop off your mail at the post office.
Your mailpiece MUST have a complete domestic return address, preferably in the upper left corner.
Some mailers establish an advance deposit account to pay the postage they still owe on their precanceled stamp mailings.
Mailpieces bearing precanceled stamps must be brought to the post office where you hold your permit. They CANNOT be dropped in a collection box or given to a carrier.
There are self-adhesive precanceled stamps.
=======================================================================
http://pe.usps.com/businessmail101/misc/nonprofitApplication.htm
How to Apply for Authorization to Mail at Nonprofit Rates
Get a copy of Form 3624, Application to Mail at Nonprofit Standard Mail Rates. The form also is available from your postmaster or local business mail entry unit.
Form 3624, Application to Mail at Nonprofit Standard Mail Rates.
Fill out Form 3624. Lines 1-8 and Lines 10-17 are self-explanatory. For Line 9, check the category (ONLY ONE) under which you are applying.
Required documentation. You must submit some documentation with your application to support your claim for nonprofit rates:
Formative papers—e.g., articles of incorporation, constitution, or charter.
IRS letter of exemption from payment of federal income tax.
Other evidence of nonprofit status—e.g., a financial statement prepared by an independent auditor substantiating organization’s nonprofit status (statement must include balance sheets, notes, etc.).
......
http://pe.usps.com/businessmail101/postage/annualMailingFee.htm
Annual Mailing Fee
Regardless of the method of postage payment you chose, if you mail in bulk you must pay an annual mailing fee (sometimes called a "bulk mailing fee"). This fee is separate from any other application fees or account deposits. You can pay via cash or check at the Post Office or BMEU. There is no special form to fill out.
Paying the annual mailing fee gives you permission to mail a certain class of mail from a certain postal facility for 365 days. For instance, you would need two different permits to mail First-Class Mail and Standard Mail bulk mailings from the same office.
You cannot mail in bulk until you pay your annual mailing fee.
-----
http://pe.usps.com/businessmail101/postage/mailingPermit.htm
Mailing Permit
A mailing permit is permission to use a certain postage payment method for bulk and discounted mailings. Instructions for applying for a mailing permit are included under each method of payment.
There is no fee to apply for a permit to mail with precanceled stamps or a postage meter.
There is a fee to apply for a permit to mail with permit imprint. This one-time only fee pays for setting up your permit imprint account. The permit imprint application fee is due when you turn in your application for a permit imprint.
You must hold a permit and pay an annual mailing fee at every Post Office where you want to enter and pay for your mail.
-----
http://pe.usps.com/text/qsg300/Q703.htm
Eligibility Overview (703.1.0)
Only qualified political committees, voting registration officials, and organizations that meet specific standards for qualified nonprofit organizations and that have received specific authorization from the USPS may mail eligible matter at the Nonprofit Standard Mail prices. Except for previously accepted mailings being deposited under a plant-verified drop shipment program (705.15.0), nonprofit mailings presented for USPS acceptance must include a properly prepared mailing statement bearing the national authorization number of the approved nonprofit organization. Pieces mailed at the Nonprofit Standard Mail prices must meet the general standards for Standard Mail (243.2.0 for letters, 343.2.0 for flats, 443.2.0 for parcels) and the standards specific to any other discount or price claimed.
Qualified organization: the organization is not organized for profit, and none of its net income inures to the benefit of any private stockholder or individual. Types of organizations that may qualify (703.1.2): religious, educational, scientific, philanthropic, agricultural, labor, veterans, and fraternal. Voting registration officials and national and state political committees may be qualified without regard to their nonprofit status.
Ineligible nonprofit organizations (703.1.4): service, social, and hobby clubs; citizens' and civic improvement associations; state, county, and municipal governments are generally not eligible.
......
Friday, March 5, 2010
Afgan WiFi & DIY Wifi
http://gizmodo.com/5486016/jalalabads-fab-fi-how-junk-was-turned-into-a-high+speed-wireless-network
Definitely worth looking into this -- maybe getting Make to help us out and document what we are doing.
Article in Make about setting up an outdoor WiFi
http://www.make-digital.com/make/vol07/?pg=121
Peter
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
Internet Connection Pricing
AT&T Business DSL
1.5 MB down 512MB up (currently $30 on our bill)
6MB down and 768MB up is $60 + Cost of a phone line.
Comcast Business Internet
12MB down / 2MB up $59.95 - $20/nonprofit rate is $39.95 (2 Outlook + $6.99/month/additional user)
22Mb down / 5MB up is $99.95 - $20/nonprofit rate is $79.95 (8 Outlook + $6.99/month/additional user)
50Mb down / 10MB up is $189.95 - $20/nonprofit rate is $169.95 (8 Outlook + $6.99/month/additional user)
If we want a connection in the church proper we could either setup wireless sharing (which can be problematic) or we could install in both locations and take advantage of the $20/per line discount.
Questions:
Cost of modem rental too?
Size of Outlook email box? 1GB or more?
Includes Outlook & Outlook Web Access supposedly includes mobile access as well.
1.5 MB down 512MB up (currently $30 on our bill)
6MB down and 768MB up is $60 + Cost of a phone line.
Comcast Business Internet
12MB down / 2MB up $59.95 - $20/nonprofit rate is $39.95 (2 Outlook + $6.99/month/additional user)
22Mb down / 5MB up is $99.95 - $20/nonprofit rate is $79.95 (8 Outlook + $6.99/month/additional user)
50Mb down / 10MB up is $189.95 - $20/nonprofit rate is $169.95 (8 Outlook + $6.99/month/additional user)
If we want a connection in the church proper we could either setup wireless sharing (which can be problematic) or we could install in both locations and take advantage of the $20/per line discount.
Questions:
Cost of modem rental too?
Size of Outlook email box? 1GB or more?
Includes Outlook & Outlook Web Access supposedly includes mobile access as well.
Monday, March 1, 2010
Cordys Process Factory - Workflow for Google Apps
Google Solutions Marketplace - Cordys Process Factory - Workflow for Google Apps
Another Business Process Automation service with integrations into Google Apps.
Another Business Process Automation service with integrations into Google Apps.
Saturday, February 27, 2010
SkyCMS (Church Templates & Hosting)
http://www.discoversky.com/
From what I can glean from their site -- looks like it could be a white label install of WrodPress Mu with a bunch of plug-ins & templates that churches would want. If not functionality looks close to that....
They are possibly based on "LightCMS" - http://www.speaklight.com/
From what I can glean from their site -- looks like it could be a white label install of WrodPress Mu with a bunch of plug-ins & templates that churches would want. If not functionality looks close to that....
They are possibly based on "LightCMS" - http://www.speaklight.com/
Friday, February 26, 2010
Single Sign-on for Online ChMS & outside tools
One of the things I'm looking for is knowing where a vendor stands on supporting Open ID or Google sign-in so that users redirected from our online site would not have to sign in with a different system, user id/pw if at all possible.
Note back from Monvee:
Note back from Monvee:
"Yes. Monvee has already begun the integration process with ACS and F1. Launch for each of those will take place this summer or early fall."
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Monvee took the webinar
Their system continues to look intriguing and possibly a good match with re-engaging the 45 and less or non-regular attendees to compliment Alternative Worship. It is very Web 3.0 which is good for us techies but they are addressing how to be friendly to those less computer savvy. Pricing right now is somewhat affordable over all especially since they are waiving a lot of the fees they will charge in the future, in exchange for participating in the beta. Beta pricing is based on % of annual budget, # of average monthly adult attendees, % of those we plan to include & reach -- formula sounds difficult but it is not.
Will continue to research and see where it takes me. They stress "disciples need to be handcrafted, they can't be mass produced."
I'm communicating with Jamie George @ Monvee who is Episcopalian herself and trying to build up a ministry to the unchurched / youth / Gen X. So there is a good level of understanding of cultural/church issues vs. only evangelic mega-church or new seed churches. Which has been an issue for some of the other tools and ChMS's I've looked at.
http://monvee.com/
Will continue to research and see where it takes me. They stress "disciples need to be handcrafted, they can't be mass produced."
I'm communicating with Jamie George @ Monvee who is Episcopalian herself and trying to build up a ministry to the unchurched / youth / Gen X. So there is a good level of understanding of cultural/church issues vs. only evangelic mega-church or new seed churches. Which has been an issue for some of the other tools and ChMS's I've looked at.
http://monvee.com/
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
Worked on a few things...
- Worked in the office today -- trying to collect marketing collaterl that a visitor might get and consider assembling a "welcome kit" to pre-package.
- Cut up a bunch of ads out of the 3 main African-American newspapers that have church ads to see what they list and how they market themselves.
- Took some of the info from the Booklet on Organizations and used it to continue to refine navigation on the next revised web site and to drop text into the template.
- Worked on the database a litte in the office but more so from home tonight. Spent a chunk of time figuring out custom fields in ACS. Now I just need to do some serious data entry/integrity check.
- I need to figure out the paradigm of Groups/Activities inside ACS People so I can enter that data as well.
- Spoke with LArry from People Connect -- got a few more resources from him to help with collecting info on visitors & how our data would need to look like for them to easily import it.
Friday, February 19, 2010
Google Apps for Enterprise/Non-Profits
Looking into features, cost and configuration:
http://www.google.com/apps/intl/en/business/index.html
Hello,
Thank you for your inquiry about Google Apps for Non Profits.
U.S. based non-profit organizations with current 501(c)(3) status and under 3,000 users can now qualify for the Free Education Edition of Google Apps. If you represent a U.S. non-profit organization with more than 3,000 users, please refer to this website:
http://www.google.com/apps/intl/en/nonprofit/index.html
We're working hard to expand the availability of the Education Edition to International non-profits, so please stay tuned. In the mean time, international non-profits are welcome to sign up for Google Apps Standard Edition or Premier Edition, both currently available in many languages worldwide.
If you think your organization qualifies, and you already have a Standard Edition account please go to the following site to upgrade your domain to Education Edition:
http://www.google.com/support/a/bin/request.py?contact_type=nonprofit
This is an automated response. We currently don't offer Sales Support to Non Profits interested in the free Education Edition of Google Apps.
However, If you are interested in the Premier Edition of Google Apps please submit your question here: http://www.google.com/a/contactsales
(Please select your 'Organization Type' as Business) and a Sales Representative will get in touch with you regarding you question.
There are multiple resources listed below that can provide you with information about Google Apps.
Your best resource for finding answers to your questions is to use the Google Apps website at http://www.google.com/a Our website maintains a compendium of all the information collected by our Sales and Customer Support Representatives in the Help Center which can be accessed here: http://www.google.com/support/a/?hl=en
Another way to get more information and ask questions directly of a live representative from Google is to attend one of our regularly scheduled webinars. These presentations will give you a more detailed understanding of the product. You can find a list of all upcoming presentations and register at: http://www.google.com/a/help/intl/en/admins/seminars.html
We also have some automated presentations in which you can learn more about the process.
Automated Demo: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wY2bpr1TAA4
Automated Presentation:
http://www.google.com/a/help/intl/en/admins/online_seminars/apps_overview/premium_seminar.html
If you are ready to sign up for Google Apps, here is a helpful 'Six Steps'
guide to sign up:
http://www.google.com/a/help/intl/en/admins/resources/setup/
If you need Professional assistance with this implementation, Google Apps has many partners who can help you with Deploying Google Apps. You can get more information about these partners here:
http://www.google.com/support/a/bin/answer.py?answer=77133&topic=10744
We also have more resources available for self help through the Google Groups for Google Apps where you will be able to talk with other administrators about Google Apps:
http://www.google.com/support/forum/p/Google+Apps?hl=en
http://groups.google.com/group/google-apps-apis (Group meant for the Google Apps developer community)
Please note that you will have access to Google Apps Customer Support if you are a qualified Non Profit organization and are signed up with Google Apps Education Edition. To see all options to get in touch with Customer Support please visit:
http://www.google.com/support/a/bin/answer.py?answer=60830
Thank You,
Google Apps Team
http://www.google.com/apps/intl/en/business/index.html
Hello,
Thank you for your inquiry about Google Apps for Non Profits.
U.S. based non-profit organizations with current 501(c)(3) status and under 3,000 users can now qualify for the Free Education Edition of Google Apps. If you represent a U.S. non-profit organization with more than 3,000 users, please refer to this website:
http://www.google.com/apps/intl/en/nonprofit/index.html
We're working hard to expand the availability of the Education Edition to International non-profits, so please stay tuned. In the mean time, international non-profits are welcome to sign up for Google Apps Standard Edition or Premier Edition, both currently available in many languages worldwide.
If you think your organization qualifies, and you already have a Standard Edition account please go to the following site to upgrade your domain to Education Edition:
http://www.google.com/support/a/bin/request.py?contact_type=nonprofit
This is an automated response. We currently don't offer Sales Support to Non Profits interested in the free Education Edition of Google Apps.
However, If you are interested in the Premier Edition of Google Apps please submit your question here: http://www.google.com/a/contactsales
(Please select your 'Organization Type' as Business) and a Sales Representative will get in touch with you regarding you question.
There are multiple resources listed below that can provide you with information about Google Apps.
Your best resource for finding answers to your questions is to use the Google Apps website at http://www.google.com/a Our website maintains a compendium of all the information collected by our Sales and Customer Support Representatives in the Help Center which can be accessed here: http://www.google.com/support/a/?hl=en
Another way to get more information and ask questions directly of a live representative from Google is to attend one of our regularly scheduled webinars. These presentations will give you a more detailed understanding of the product. You can find a list of all upcoming presentations and register at: http://www.google.com/a/help/intl/en/admins/seminars.html
We also have some automated presentations in which you can learn more about the process.
Automated Demo: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wY2bpr1TAA4
Automated Presentation:
http://www.google.com/a/help/intl/en/admins/online_seminars/apps_overview/premium_seminar.html
If you are ready to sign up for Google Apps, here is a helpful 'Six Steps'
guide to sign up:
http://www.google.com/a/help/intl/en/admins/resources/setup/
If you need Professional assistance with this implementation, Google Apps has many partners who can help you with Deploying Google Apps. You can get more information about these partners here:
http://www.google.com/support/a/bin/answer.py?answer=77133&topic=10744
We also have more resources available for self help through the Google Groups for Google Apps where you will be able to talk with other administrators about Google Apps:
http://www.google.com/support/forum/p/Google+Apps?hl=en
http://groups.google.com/group/google-apps-apis (Group meant for the Google Apps developer community)
Please note that you will have access to Google Apps Customer Support if you are a qualified Non Profit organization and are signed up with Google Apps Education Edition. To see all options to get in touch with Customer Support please visit:
http://www.google.com/support/a/bin/answer.py?answer=60830
Thank You,
Google Apps Team
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
ACS update
Spent a few hours at the church office today working with ACS to get our outdated 8.x People Module files uploaded to them to have them transformed to be 10.x compatible which is the version required for us to run on Vista.
They are are using a pretty cool remote control tool and were able to access the hard drive/screen via the web so no need to zip up files or FTP.
Once we get the data back in 3-5 days will import it into the new 10.x install after applying the latest patches. From there Judy and I can work on updating the data.
While there got the Google Voice # setup as well for the church in preparation for future use. I also got a copy of a recent phone bill to look at the pricing/feature/functionality. Some CRM options are really Web/Tech/Phone integrated and can help create records or pop-up a notes screen so information flows more easily into the user record.
They are are using a pretty cool remote control tool and were able to access the hard drive/screen via the web so no need to zip up files or FTP.
Once we get the data back in 3-5 days will import it into the new 10.x install after applying the latest patches. From there Judy and I can work on updating the data.
While there got the Google Voice # setup as well for the church in preparation for future use. I also got a copy of a recent phone bill to look at the pricing/feature/functionality. Some CRM options are really Web/Tech/Phone integrated and can help create records or pop-up a notes screen so information flows more easily into the user record.
Monday, February 15, 2010
ChMS next steps... Revive ACS People
I am going to try and see if we can revive ACS People as soon as possible before heading too far down the ChMS & CRM discussion. Plus we really need to get the membership data in some database to manipulate it for outreach i.e. be able to get it synced with office version of the directory and then be able in the near future to email, mail, phone call, etc. Plus once it is in there and updated -- will be easier to export and import into another ChMS if we make that decision.
ACS People has been down for the count at least a year when the office PC died and the replacement came with Vista. At that point ACS People was not being heavily used and they did not have a Vista compatible version.
I’m thinking about taking a day maybe tomorrow to try and get this one solved if I can download the software. If I can’t and need to wait for a mailed/shipped disc – will be later in the week/when disc arrives.
I may have to look into a short term GoToMyPC type service if we only have one license for the People module and it must remain in the office. Unfortunately the data is so out of date and if its on the Church sectary's PC that means considerable data entry may need to happen. My free time is mainly when my kids are in school/office open -- but that may be when she is working.
Goal is to get the data in sync & updated with the manual church directory and to be able to categorize current active attendees separate from Visitors and Lapsed members/attendees. What this allows us to do is communicate and give tools to current members as well as allow us to try and develop a plan to reach back out to lapsed and previous visitors.
UPDATE: Ed just sent me the ACS info, links to download 10.x and support credentials. We do have the ongoing support at the Preferred level and cost is ~$85/month. St. A's owns:
UPDATE: Ed just sent me the ACS info, links to download 10.x and support credentials. We do have the ongoing support at the Preferred level and cost is ~$85/month. St. A's owns:
9010
People Module
Active
9015
Contributions Module
Active
9110
General Ledger Module
Active
9120
Accounts Payable Module
Active
9975-DOS
Parochial Report Module - DOS
Discontinued
9067
Parochial Report Module
Active
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Notes on Power Connection
Notes From my Power Connection Call
(Call and demo with Larry Hardy 2/10/10)
Primary goal was to learn more about their solution and see it in action at least our top "priority" items. This meant focus on the Visitor Power module primarily and some on Member Power. We touched Web Power and I skipped the Contribution side for now.
Software:
Process:
Info / Stats: <I'm definitely interested in research>
Hints / Suggestions:
(Call and demo with Larry Hardy 2/10/10)
Primary goal was to learn more about their solution and see it in action at least our top "priority" items. This meant focus on the Visitor Power module primarily and some on Member Power. We touched Web Power and I skipped the Contribution side for now.
Software:
- No web forms post-in, no email-in processing – entry of contact is entirely MANUAL
- Very Que based – approach with significant overview/control at the "Program Director" level. Volunteer callers cannot access or change actual records in their web form -- can print out a call sheet and later enter a series of notes into a web form vs. correct or worse case corrupt good data.
- Lots (almost all) of "results" to queries and functions are exported to CVS not displayed and not displayed with a hyperlink to drill down into a member of visitor record.
- Way to get to member record is primarily a name search.
- Volunteer caller management is done by the "Program Director" role who can see assign / reassign people manually – You can easily see the volunteer caller name followed by ##/## which represents que of assigned people and # of total calls they pledge they can make on a weekly basis
- System has a vacation / time off / DND to help limit dead-end/drop outs/delays of volunteer callers connections to visitors.
- During calls or completion of print/cards for later entry if a visitor selected interest in several items i.e. interested in Parents group the visitor in the que would also be contacted by that specific ministry i.e. expressed interest in parents group – qued to be called by that specific groups leader.
- Built-in survey i.e. lists of things to ask or listen for to gather more complete information and link into the ministries/groups.
- Once a volunteer caller completes data entry for 1st call made -- flows to the next call data entry form.
- Power.Web is their CMS and also helps syndicate out info to churches with more advanced sites.
- System is not really a true "modern" CRM it only really tracks notes and info does not integrate, facilitate or track email or other "touch points" unfortunately.
Process:
- Secret of Power visitor is the process / discipline of 5 calls by three individuals over X weeks (I think 4-5 weeks). Caller 2 & 3 call twice.
- Visitors are matched to volunteer callers automatically based on first Location, Family Status, Hobby, Age (First Caller is generally closest member)
- Process for addressing non-attendance: Week 1 - slide, Week 2 - Letter, Week 3 - Call, Week 4 - Home Visit.
- Data collection is basically manual via contact/visitor cards collected weekly and taken up with the offering. From there data entry Sunday on Monday AM so if possible follow-up calls go out Monday for a weekend service.
- All call attempts are entered not just successes.
- You can drop someone out of the process easily by changing status.
Info / Stats: <I'm definitely interested in research>
- 70% of visitors drop out of a church when after 4-14 weeks # 1 sighted issue was never established a relationship to someone in the church. #2 issue sighted was someone was never asked to participate in anything.
- Only 2-8% of visitors convert to long term members if there is no contact strategy in place. With connection power they say that rises to 28-48% depending on how well systems are implemented and followed.
- Three weeks from purchase to train before launching Power Visitor.
- Their experience is email response rates are down to 3-5% while mail receipt rate was close to 100%
- Church who has 60% of members over 60 will die within a decade
- 70% of visitors now visit a web site before attending a church
- Number one "turn off" to web visitor was an out of date site
Hints / Suggestions:
- Adoption of Lapsed/Attendance Troubled members by another Family
- Attendance tracking is key and a process to follow up for fall out of both members and visitors.
- Using Avery label name badges @ every major service to track attendance (those labels not pulled returned to input absent).
- Adding an interesting "ask me question of the week" to name badges to encourage conversation. Those that don’t take a badge then are marked Absent.
- First caller in the volunteer callers should be the best "personality" you've got i.e. positive and friendly.
- First call should be no more than 48 hours after attending a service and completing a visitor card.
- First caller should arrange to meet the visitor for the service on the following Sunday 3-5 minutes before the service and offer to sit together and introduce them.
- Weekly Call Partner Rewards and Praise for Top Caller - possibly ribbon or something on their name badge.
- Church needs a "cruise director" similar to my "mother hen" analogy
- "Visitor Centers" are very popular now
- People go to small churches to build relationships. Families go to big/mega/giga churches to have someone babysit their kids during service, activities and church schools, etc.
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
"Assimilation" scares me...
I've reviewed a bunch of sites and software including written material, web videos, sales pitches and emails from vendors of different ChMS solutions. There is just something inside me that (hates the Borg) is uneasy with the concept that churches aim to assimilate new members into them vs. incorporate (or include or integrate) new people into the body of the church. Assimilation is used in a lot of the promotional materials and software to cover the process of integrating a new member.
I realize this process needs a name but assimilate to me is to force conformity and indoctrinate aka along the lines of being a totalitarian than a process to share, encourage and facilitate spirituality in someone's life. Assimilation also has a racist and cultural superiority overtones with forcing any group to adopt the language, culture, etc. of the majority.
Oh well -- if it comes across in any manuals/print materials we'll need to come up with a better term at that point.
I realize this process needs a name but assimilate to me is to force conformity and indoctrinate aka along the lines of being a totalitarian than a process to share, encourage and facilitate spirituality in someone's life. Assimilation also has a racist and cultural superiority overtones with forcing any group to adopt the language, culture, etc. of the majority.
Oh well -- if it comes across in any manuals/print materials we'll need to come up with a better term at that point.
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