A new feature for the Traveller system which allows users to e-mail shot a number of clients with HTML based e-mail. Previously, it was only possible to send text based e-mail, with images and documents 'attached' to the mail, with HTML e-mail this isn't the case, the entire mail becomes a web site in itself, links can be embedded within the mail to jump to your companies web site directly to the offer in question.
The generation of the HTML is carried out in external third party applications such as Microsoft Frontpage, or Dreamweaver, there are many other software packages to choose from. It should be noted that Micros|Travel will support clients from the point where the HTML file is imported into Traveller, if assistance is required in the design and saving of the HTML file itself it is recommend that users contact either their IT support or use the software's help facility. Micros|Travel will not assist in this area.
As the HTML e-mails are created externally it is impossible to use keywords like you can within the document designer, the flyers therefore will not be able to reference the clients name for example.
In sending large amounts of e-mail, through Traveller or otherwise you open up the possibility of becoming blacklisted by your ISP or other service providers. Becoming blacklisted can lead to e-mails not being delivered, and ultimately the blocking of your account there. Whilst this feature in Traveller can be a powerful tool to help in advertising and customer relations. Care and moderation should be taken in the use of it. Micros|Travel will not accept any responsibility for negative implications imposed by internet service providers which arise through the use of this software. If in doubt, consult your ISP for exact details regarding their policies on this subject.
For each clerk in Traveller this message will be clearly displayed the first time a mail shot is ran under their account, the user must accept the terms and conditions to continue.
Once you have a HTML file ready and saved on your hard disk, and a group of clients whom you wish to e-mail then you are ready to begin the criteria selection.
In the screen shot above, the 3 important areas of the mail shot screen in regard to HTML Flyers have been highlighted in red. To send an e-mail shot use the following list below :
1) Firstly, ensure that all clients for whom e-mail shots are to apply to have valid e-mail addresses, and that the e-mail shots tick box has been checked in client details.
2) Next Ensure that the current user has SMTP E-mail configured, this feature will not work without this configuration.
2) Select your criteria as you normally would for any standard mail shot.
3) The Subject line for your e-mail will equal the Description field.
4) The checkbox labeled HTML Flyer must be checked, once checked it will be possible to browse your computer for a valid HTML file to use.
5) Click on "Report ALL" or "Report Selected" to initiate the search.
6) In the case of "Report ALL", you will be presented with a print preview for all clients matching your criteria, after which you will be returned to the criteria screen shown above, the "Email Flyer" button will now be enabled. Warning
7) In the case of "Report Selected" a list similar to the one shown below will be shown, it is possible on this screen to deselect clients who you which to omit from the flyers distribution. Once you are happy with this list, select "Mail Selected" to continue. Warning
Finally, a dialog box will be displayed asking you to confirm that X amount of e-mails are to be sent, this is displayed to give the user the opportunity to verify the number sent and ensure that no mistakes have been made. A copy of the e-mail is always sent to the clerks home email address.