Even More Communication

Websites are great for presenting information, but sometimes email is just a better fit. Whether the information is more specific, you want to create a deeper connection with your users or both, email newsletters help your users feel like you are talking directly to them.

We developed a tool in-house to send simple, text-based emails that has been a great success. Since the tool is for those who voluntarily sign up to receive information, it targets those who want to know more. Whether the Sheriff is sending out timely notices about a safety issue or a department is sharing an upcoming event, the tool has been very well-received as yet another way we have worked to foster better communication and information-sharing.

Update for January 16, 2009

In an effort to make this tool as useful as possible, I helped the Clermont Transportation Connection put together instructions to make it easy for users to enter their cell phone numbers instead of their email addresses. Since their messages are usually very brief and involve scheduling issues, it seemed much more relevant to provide the information to users who might already be waiting outside.

There was a quick flurry of sign up activity during the first week of the tool being offered and subscription numbers have more than doubled since. It’s very satisfying to be part of a project that really makes people’s lives easier.

Related posts

1. New Tools for the Recorder’s site
2. Consolidation
3. Knowing the Answer
4. Not Letting a Good Crisis Go To Waste
5. Re-thinking Their Approach