Autoresponders (or Automatic Responders) are now the lifeblood of E-Mail Marketing. Today, I'd like to take a look at 2 major types. The totally managed solution (e.g. AWeber) and a self-installed solution (e.g. Send Studio). We're not recommending one over the other here as they both obviously have their pros and cons, so we'll just present the facts here!
The first is a subscription-based model which means it'll cost you month-to-month and the second is an outright puchase for (usually) an unlimited number of sites. This is usually in the form of some scripts which needs to be installed on your server. (There are also PC-based ones which I'll cover in another article - please subscribe if you'd like to be kept in the know when its published)
For the sake of brevity, I'll refer to them as Hosted and Installed. Now, let's compare them based on 4 criteria -
- Ease-of-use
- Customization and Backups
- Reliability and Delivery
- Value for Money (Cost)
Ease of Use
The Hosted version has the upper hand here. Most Autoresponder vendors make their software simple to use and gets you up and running as soon as your credit card is credited. The Installed version usually takes a bit of time to fully install, customize and test (although the vendors normally provide some sort of installation support)
Customization and Backups
I tend to prefer the Installed version here as (being a geek) I can tweak and customize the software to exactly what I need. Plus, since its installed on my server, I can make all sorts of automated backups of my database.The Hosted service usually also offers some exporting/backup service, but its just peace of mine to know that my files and marketing database is on my 'property'!
Reliability and Delivery
The Hosted version tends to do this better since they have tested, robust delivery systems (which in the case of AWeber, has a "99.34% deliverability") , so you can rely on their knowledge of Spam Blacklists and other Anti-Spam technologies and work-arounds for them. The Installed version needs a bit more attention and monitoring to ensure that its working as it should be. Still, we've seen most of our Installed system behave well with minimal attention.
Value for Money
In the long run, the Installed version can be more cost-effective especially if you have a network of sites you'd like to operate. But again, the other benefits from an outsourced system might be more suitable.
Our verdict? Its a tie! Again, both systems are different and work well depending on your level of technical competence, budget and requirements. I hope that this guide will help you in your decision, but remember, whatever your decision is, do have one in place to maximise the profitability of your website!
