[sthilali]

I've just discovered that my predecessor purchased Address Finder but we have never used it.

My data entry staff have some concerns with using this product based on the fact that the Post office info is not always correct and they feel our data is pretty good. Right now we mail to all our constituents (primarily alumni) several times a year and always request return service. Since we enter all the address updates manually we can identify any 'odd' issues and further research (ex - sometimes is a faculty that we know has not moved).

I see thier point - but am not completely convinced - however I trust them as they are the ones who see the data every day.

So basically I'm looking for any pitfalls to be aware of - and an argurment for why we should use and continue to pay for this product.

ANY input would be appreciated.

Thanks.

Lisa
Southern NH University

[Melissa Siobhan]

It is exactly the same database they use to process the return service as they use to do NCOA. If they are trusting the retrn service they should trust the NCOA.

With NCOA you are doing it proactively so the constituents have no delay in delivery and you are not paying such a high price as you do for return service.

Both before and after running AddressFinder you can get a printed report of the changes to be made/or already made and those should be reviewed by the same people who would have found the error with the staff person.

If you still have trust issues you can immediately after processing send postcards to everyone who had their address changed telling them that you changed their address. If in error the card will either come back or the donor will contact you.