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Registration Now Open for Xploration® 18

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Customer Communications Conference to be Held April 17-19, 2018 in Orlando, FL

Lutz, FL – November 7, 2017 – Xplor International, the worldwide electronic document systems association, today announced that registration is now open for Xploration® 18 being held April 17-19, 2018 in Orlando, Florida at the Rosen Plaza.

Tweet this: @Xplor_Int announced that registration is open for Xploration 18 in Orlando, FL at the Rosen Plaza! More info: bit.ly/2Ans0Fn #XPLOR18

The Enterprise Communications Industry is in a constant state of evolution driven by new technology and changes in human behavior. Xploration 18 is about enabling the Enterprise Communications Industry by providing the “What, Why and How” for industry trends, best practices, regulations and new technologies.

With the Customer Experience taking center stage in our industry, the 2018 curriculum will cover:

  • Key Industry Trends you must prepare your business for NOW!
  • Best Practices to improve your profitability
  • Regulations that impact your business
  • Technology Solutions that are changing the industry

The event will feature over 40 educational sessions presented by end users, industry analysts, consultants, and subject matter experts who will share real world examples and case studies.

The event will take place at the Rosen Plaza which features 800 deluxe guestrooms at a great location, across the street from the Pointe Orlando shopping and entertainment complex. The Xplor group rate for this great venue is locked in at $189 per night for a standard room (plus tax, no resort fees).

If you are involved in the design, creation, production and distribution of customer bills, statements, direct mail, policies or other transactional communications, no matter what channel(s) of distribution, the Xploration 18 conference program is relevant to your organization.

“The 2018 program content is in direct response to a survey we sent to the Xplor community” says Skip Henk, President and CEO of Xplor International. “The response was overwhelming and we were able to donate $5 for each completed survey to Veterans Matter. Not only did we get great input, but we were able to help raise money to house homeless veterans and their families.”

Conference Program: The two-and-a-half day event is the perfect blend of educational sessions, panel discussions, general sessions, and networking events. Features include:

  • 40+ Educational Sessions
  • Panel Discussions and General Sessions
  • Keynote Speaker
  • 35+ Industry Partners in the Vendor Forum
  • Two Evening Networking Events (Tue/Wed)
  • Two Networking Luncheons (Tue/Wed)
  • Thursday Breakfast
  • New for 2018: A Morning with Keypoint Intelligence – InfoTrends

For more information regarding Xploration 18, or to access the registration site, please visit www.xplor.org/xplor18. Questions should be directed to Register@xplor.org or +1-813-949-6170 between the hours of 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM (ET), Monday through Friday.

Vendors interested in being an exhibitor should contact Xplor’s Director of Sales, Deborah Green at +1-770-444-3845 or via email at deborahgreen@xplor.org.

About Xplor International
Xplor International is a not-for-profit association that provides thought leadership to the customer communications industry. As a community Xplor provides advocacy, education, training, mentoring and networking opportunities.

Our members are decision makers and recommenders who are involved in the conception, design, implementation production and delivery of multi-channel client, member and customer communications.

Xplor’s mission is to enhance organizational success and advance the careers of our members by providing research, publications, industry certification, professional development, web-based events, and conference programming. Xplor International has its worldwide headquarters in Lutz, Florida, with affiliated offices around the world. Further information is available at www.xplor.org.

Facebook: facebook.com/XplorInternational
Twitter: twitter.com/Xplor_Int or @Xplor_Int

Xplor International Media Contact:
Chad Henk
Director of Marketing
+1-813-949-6171
Chad@xplor.org

About Veterans Matter
Veterans Matter is the result of collaborative innovation integrating technology, housing, and the community; with the medical, mental and employment help provided by the VA that creates evidence-based results for our heroes in need: Returning them to domestic autonomy. Our mission is simple: house as many homeless veterans as we can, as fast as we can to provide the fresh start. http://veteransmatter.org/

Xplor’s Keynote Breakfast Panel Features Industry Leading Panelists

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Exploring the Role of Print in Today’s Customer Journey

Lutz, FL — August 30, 2017:  Xplor International today announced the final line up of leading industry experts who will be participating in the Xplor at Print Keynote Breakfast Panel on September 12th at McCormick Place.

The event, sponsored by Canon Solutions America, Compart, Pitney Bowes and Racami, will feature four panelists that include:

  • Bill Augustadt, Vice President of Digital Communications at Conduent
  • Robert Iantorno, Vice President, North American Operations, Document Fulfillment at KUBRA
  • Dave Johannes, Senior Vice President of Operations at IWCO Direct
  • Matt Pribus, Vice President of Correspondence and Remittance Services at First Data Corporation

The session titled, Exploring the Role of Print in Today’s Customer Journey will be moderated by Matt Swain of Keypoint Intelligence – InfoTrends.  Our moderator, along with our end-user panelists, will focus on the latest market trends, best practices, and the role of print in today’s customer journey.

The complimentary event is limited to the first 200 registrants, of which over 75% of seats are reserved. Registration includes admission to the panel session, a networking breakfast, and a Print 17 exhibit hall pass, all courtesy of the event sponsors. For more information, or to register for the event, visit the event page.

Event Details:
Date: September 12, 2017
Time: 8:30 AM to 10:00 AM (Breakfast starts at 7:30 AM)
Location: McCormick Place, Chicago, IL – Room S105ABC
Cost: FREE (Registration required and limited to the first 200 registrants)

For information about Xplor at Print 17, please visit the event website. You can also contact Xplor Headquarters at +1-813-949-6170.

About Xplor International
Xplor International is a not-for-profit association that provides thought leadership to the customer communications industry. As a community Xplor provides advocacy, education, training, mentoring and networking opportunities.

Our members are decision makers and recommenders who are involved in the conception, design, implementation production and delivery of multi-channel client, member and customer communications.

Xplor’s mission is to enhance organizational success and advance the careers of our members by providing research, publications, industry certification, professional development, web-based events, and conference programming. Xplor International has its worldwide headquarters in Lutz, Florida, with affiliated offices around the world. Further information is available at www.xplor.org.

Facebook: facebook.com/XplorInternational
Twitter: twitter.com/Xplor_Int or @Xplor_Int

Xplor International Media Contact:
Chad Henk
Director of Marketing
+1-813-949-6171
Chad@xplor.org

Industry Leaders Support Xplor at Print 17 Panel

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Lutz, FL — August 15, 2017: Xplor International today announced that Canon Solutions America, Compart North America, Pitney Bowes and Racami will be sponsoring the Xplor at Print 17 Breakfast Panel being held September 12, 2017 during Print 17 in Chicago.

The session titled, Exploring the Role of Print in Today’s Customer Journey will be moderated by Matt Swain of Keypoint Intelligence – InfoTrends  and will focus on the integral role that print plays as part of the customer journey.

Session description: The recent enterprise focus on improving customer experience is strongly tied to reviewing and improving the customer journey. Understanding—and mapping—a customer journey can be as much an art as it is a science. Since that journey now spans many media types, the role of print can get lost in the mix.  A timely communication by mail can secure a new customer, while a poorly-executed print campaign can also spell disaster.

Our moderator, along with our end-user panelists, will focus on the latest market trends, best practices, and the role of print in today’s customer journey.

The complimentary event is limited to the first 200 registrants. Registration includes admission to the panel session, a networking breakfast, and a Print 17 exhibit hall pass, all courtesy of the event sponsors. For more information, or to register for the event, visit the event page.

“As technology and human behavior evolve, print remains an integral component of the customer journey.” says Skip Henk, President and CEO of Xplor International. “The panel will focus on the role of print as part of the customer experience, as well as the methodology involved and how their companies use print as part of their strategy.”

Event Details:
Date: September 12, 2017
Time: 8:30 AM to 10:00 AM (Breakfast starts at 7:30 AM)
Location: McCormick Place, Chicago, IL – Room S105ABC
Cost: FREE (Registration required and limited to the first 200 registrants)

For information about Xplor at Print 17, please visit: http://bit.ly/2ftuv2C. You can also contact Xplor Headquarters at +1-813-949-6170.

About Xplor International
Xplor International is a not-for-profit association that provides thought leadership to the customer communications industry. As a community Xplor provides advocacy, education, training, mentoring and networking opportunities.

Our members are decision makers and recommenders who are involved in the conception, design, implementation production and delivery of multi-channel client, member and customer communications.

Xplor’s mission is to enhance organizational success and advance the careers of our members by providing research, publications, industry certification, professional development, web-based events, and conference programming. Xplor International has its worldwide headquarters in Lutz, Florida, with affiliated offices around the world. Further information is available at www.xplor.org.

Facebook: facebook.com/XplorInternational
Twitter: twitter.com/Xplor_Int or @Xplor_Int

Xplor International Media Contact:
Chad Henk
Director of Marketing
+1-813-949-6171
Chad@xplor.org

Xplor to host Keynote breakfast Panel at Print 17

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Complimentary registration is now open for the event titled
“Exploring the Role of Print in Today’s Customer Journey”

Lutz, FL— June 21, 2017: Xplor International today announced that they will once again host a complimentary keynote breakfast panel during the Print 17 event, September 10 – September 14, 2017 at McCormick Place, Chicago. Additionally, the event is now open for registration. Attendees can register for the complimentary breakfast panel here: http://www.cvent.com/d/j5qw5s.

The recent enterprise focus on improving customer experience is strongly tied to reviewing and improving the customer journey. Understanding—and mapping—a customer journey can be as much an art as it is a science. Since that journey now spans many media types, the role of print can get lost in the mix.  A timely communication by mail can secure a new customer, while a poorly-executed print campaign can also spell disaster.

The breakfast keynote session, moderated by Matt Swain of Keypoint Intelligence – InfoTrends, is titled “Exploring the Role of Print in Today’s Customer Journey” and will focus on the latest market trends, best practices, and the role of print in today’s customer journey. End user panelists will share their insights during the event that boasts a lively discussion.

This sponsored breakfast session is presented at no charge, thanks to sponsors Canon Solutions America, Compart North America, and Pitney Bowes. Space will again be limited to the first 200 people who register, so register today as this session has reached capacity each year.

When:  September 12, 2017
Where: McCormick Place, Chicago, IL, Room S105abc (Right by Bus Drop Off)
Time: 7:30 AM-10:00 AM
Registration Fee: Complimentary (Registration Required here: http://www.cvent.com/d/j5qw5s)

Questions and requests for additional information can be directed to Xplor Headquarters via phone at +1-813-949-6170 or via email at info@xplor.org. One additional sponsorship opportunity remains open for the event. For more information on becoming a sponsor, please contact Deborah Green, Director of Sales, at +1-770-444-3845 or deborahgreen@xplor.org.

About Xplor International
Xplor International is a not-for-profit association that provides thought leadership to the customer communications industry. As a community Xplor provides advocacy, education, training, mentoring and networking opportunities.

Our members are decision makers and recommenders who are involved in the conception, design, implementation production and delivery of multi-channel client, member and customer communications.

Xplor’s mission is to enhance organizational success and advance the careers of our members by providing research, publications, industry certification, professional development, web-based events, and conference programming. Xplor International has its worldwide headquarters in Lutz, Florida, with affiliated offices around the world. Further information is available at www.xplor.org.

Facebook: facebook.com/XplorInternational
Twitter: twitter.com/Xplor_Int or @Xplor_Int

Xplor International Media Contact:
Chad Henk
Director of Marketing
+1-813-949-6171
Chad@xplor.org

Dear Occupant, We Are Raising The Bar!

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If you are old enough to remember receiving direct mail addressed to “Dear Occupant,” you will certainly remember the astonishment and wonder when you received your first piece of “personalized mail” – Dear (insert your name here).
Over time the level of text personalization increased to include things like the company you worked for, the city you lived in, etc., and we all felt connected in some way. We were not just an “occupant” but an individual.

That was the late 80‘s, early 90’s if I recall correctly.

Today, receive a piece of personalized mail and you are typically less than impressed. In fact, you probably may even ignore it unless it is something out of the ordinary, like your name spelled in the sand on a beach, or in the clouds against a blue sky. There is still a WOW factor to the innovative use of personalization. However personalization and the WOW factor have to be relevant. A catchy piece, plus a good offer to the right person, equals a winner for the Brand.

In 1999 Harry Quadracci of Quad Graphics wrote, “We are in the Age of Advertising. Baby Boomers, now in their peak spending years, have a lot of buying power, and there’s going to be a lot of advertising to get that dollar. The best way to harness that buying power will be through properly promoting the brand… and the most effective media for brand promotion will continue to be ink on paper. It’s The Brand, Stupid, it’s The Brand!”

Mr.Quadracci was right in 1999 and remains so today, “it is the brand” and the decision makers of the brands who require results. Sending out 100,000 pieces of direct mail to “Dear (insert your name here), hoping 2-3% produce results is no longer what the brands are looking for or need. Sending out 50,000 innovative pieces, to the right people with the right offer drives double digit results. If you are a printer I am not saying you need to be a “marketeer” – but you do need to understand what your customers may ask you to print. (Everyone familiar with augmented reality?)

So as a printer, what is interactive print? (I personally believe it could be the Renaissance of direct mail) What do the brands need? How can you be part of the opportunity?

There is a great deal of opportunity for those who get it. To get it you need to reach out to different places and spheres of influences.

I invite you to add Xplor to your sphere of influences and join us for Xploration 14, March 25-27th in Orlando Florida.

RR Donnelley Buys Consolidated – Survival or Growth?

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Early in my career I fantasized about the possibility that 100% of the businesses in the world, their economic output and profits were all the efforts of one person. Seems a bit farfetched but I always deemed it plausible.

Some of the United States most influential industrialists like Andrew Carnegie and Rockefeller had that dream, although those dreams were eventually dashed by anti-monopoly laws.

The Monopoly of Print?

When I heard of the acquisition of Consolidated Graphics by RR Donnelley I certainly was not surprised. Donnelley with a $3.26 billion dollar market cap acquiring a smaller entity with a $617 million dollar market cap. Each company has very respectable “revenue per employee” numbers in a very competitive market with $182,188 and  $197,919, Consolidated having the edge.

A quick look at their websites reveals complementary technologies and product offerings.  Both companies have lots of locations with Donnelley being more “global” with about 40 overseas locations.  A great fit.

Survival or Growth?

So what is RR Donnelley buying? Customers, technology, unique products, people resources or a corporate culture? Maybe all of the above. I am sure there are many that are simply saying it is part of the natural evolution happening in the industry of consolidation due to a shrinking market.  From the outside it certainly looks like this might be the case.

Appears to be the old “survival growth strategy” when a larger company in a declining market buys up smaller companies. Larger company experiences incremental growth and the industry goes on to fight another day. (Remember microfiche and the Anacomp buying spree?)

Not playing monopoly … Just smart business

My guess, is that RR Donnelley is not playing monopoly with the acquisition but is catapulting their evolution as “distributors” of information. It is about content and the delivery of that content utilizing a variety of channels that are instigated by print.

If you look at their websites there certainly is overlap but there are also plenty of differences which represent opportunity and growth. These two forward thinking companies are simply engaging in smart business and are well positioned for the future.  (Kind of like owning both Boardwalk and Park Place)

Survival, growth, monopoly or smart business. What are your thoughts?

Addressing The Address Issue

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No Address …. Really?

After coming back from Print13 I began my “post-tradeshow/event” ritual. It is the same for every trip I make:

  1. I go through everything gathering every scrap of paper whether it be business cards, receipts, brochures, etc. from my five day trip.
  2. I sort expense receipts by day, business cards with and without notes, notes from meetings and information that I want to read and review.
  3. Do my expenses
  4. Follow up on any action items I may have noted on business cards.
  5. Pass along business cards to be put in my database
  6. Follow up on any notes I have taken
  7. WRITE personal notes to people I met

I know personal notes are a dying tradition but I really think they are powerful and but I am starting to understand why fewer people write them.

I collected 31 cards from 16 different companies of which 12 individuals from six companies did not have a mailing address on their business card. That is 37% roughly of the companies.

Why do people do this? Do they save that much space?  So I go to their website and 4 of the 6 companies do not have their address under the “contact us” tab.

I sent them an email, requested their address and mailed them the note despite their best effort.

Can anyone tell me why you would not have your address on your business card or certainly some place obvious on your website?

Is Multi-Channel Marketing Just Another Spray and Pray?

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Last week when I was in Haiti I had an interesting conversation with one of the people in our group about the whole subject of marketing and in particular the best way he could solicit funds for his not-for-profit organization.
He shared that he had researched the concept of multi-channel marketing and was keen on the idea of trying to communicate with people using different channels to increase the odds of his success. His logic followed conventional wisdom that if he puts his message out utilizing different channels that one of them would stick, prompt some type of response and increase donations.

As we talked more I began to wonder if multi-channel marketing was becoming the new spray and pray.

Spray and Pray

In the old days of direct mail the terms “spray and pray” meant you sent “x” number of people a direct mail piece and a percentage would respond. Acceptable response rates were 2-3% and as technology and demographic targeting became more prevalent exponential increases in percentages of responses were realized.

More relevant and targeted marketing, generating fewer mailed pieces, with a higher response and better ROI have replaced the spray and pray method.

Is Multi-Channel Marketing the New “Spray and Pray”?

I have children so I understand they will respond to a text faster than a phone call. Call your child, wait for it to go into voice mail (if they have one) and then text them to get an instant answer. Text messaging as a channel works. For others it is Twitter, LinkedIn, some Facebook (although kids are leaving it since their parents discovered it!) and there are still many who value their walk to the mailbox.

One would think then it would be all about the channel.

What Could Multi-Channel Marketing Be?

I attend a lot of conferences, participate in a lot of Webinars, and I have seen some great multi-channel campaigns that were works of art. They not only relied on the delivery channel but the message associated with each type of media. They capitalized on the attributes of each channel as well as the various senses they triggered. They were an “ongoing message” designed to engage, engrain a message and drive different calls to actions. Different messages using different channels.

Maybe it’s not just the channel, but a combination of the channel and messaging

Confusing? Yes? No? Not sure?

I guess everyone’s definition of multi-channel marketing is a bit different. Some simply take the same information and send it out using different channels and others make it an engaging experience.  If it works, who is to say it is wrong.

Back to Haiti! As we continued to talk he realized that the delivery channel was important but so was the product, story line, design and demographics of the recipients. (He is not a marketing guy just someone who want to raise money to help people.) Since we had a whole evening with no TV, little light and no internet, we decided to plot out a campaign that included video, pictures, social media presence, etc. etc. It will be interesting to check back with him.

It all boils down to the right message, to the right person at the right time using the right channel(s).

Come and Hear for Yourself …. Are We There Yet?

I invite you to attend the complimentary Xplor at Print13 breakfast session entitled “Are We There Yet? A 2013 Multi-Channel Communications Industry Perspective” moderated by Matt Swain of InfoTrends.

The panel will feature end users who have provide multi-channel communications to their customers. They have been there and will share their successes and failures.

For more information or to register please visit: https://xplor.org/upcoming-events/xplor-at-print-13

A Printer Who Won’t Take An Order

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Many of my blogs talk about the future of print and the other opportunities that may be out there for the “masters of ink” to grow and expand their business. I came across something that is a bit on the fringe but it is print per se and has an unlimited number of applications.

While doing some research on printing technologies I came across hydrographic printing, also known as water transfer printing. Never heard of the process, maybe you have, but it did peak my interest and so I spent a bit more time checking it out.

Video here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ADq96RGRf00

Now the icing on the cake. I go to the Hydra Imaging website and right across the page it says “Until we fit our present contracts, we will not be taking any new orders.” WHAT?????

I am thinking there has to be an opportunity here. What are your thoughts?