Word Processor

The word processor, also known as WPMerge, can be accessed by choosing Reports, then either Form Letters or Postcards.

WPMerge can be used just as a normal word processing program like Word or Wordperfect.  It has the added feature of allowing you to insert merge fields.  These fields enable you to generate a document that will print one copy addressed to each customer on your mailing list.

General Use

WPMerge works like most other word processing programs.  Files can be opened by clicking on File, then clicking Open.  New documents can be created by clicking File, then clicking New.  Documents can be saved by clicking File, then either clicking Save to save the document under its original name, or Save As to give the file a new name.  You can use the standard editing commands, such as copy and paste, by using the Edit menu.  To insert a picture, click on Insert, then Picture, and then enter the name of the picture file you would like to insert.  Formatting options such as fonts and spacing are available through the Format option.  A spell checker is available by clicking on Tools, then Spelling.

Merge Features

Merge fields allow you to add in fields that hold information for each person on your mailing list.  For example, you could add in the «Customer Name» merge field by clicking Insert Merge Field, then Customer Name, it will now print a copy of the document for each customer's name from your mailing list.  To create a document with merge fields, make a normal document, such as a thank you letter.  Wherever you need to put information specific to each customer, such as their name, address, birthday, etc., click on Insert Merge Field and select the field that you want to insert from the list of fields shown.  Once the document is finished, save it, and then click on Insert, and then click Do the Merge!.  This will create a copy of the document for each of the customers on the mailing list.

Form Letters

In order to create a form letter, you must first print a mailing list of customers that you want to send letters to. After you've printed your list of customers, and are satisfied that the list matches the customers that should receive the letter, cancel the Mailing Report screen, and click on the Form Letters button.  This will open WPMerge.  To assist you, we have already set up three form letter documents.  These can be opened by clicking the 1, 2, or 3 buttons on the WPMerge toolbar (top of the screen).  You can also create your own document following the instructions above.

Post Cards

In order to create post cards, you must first print a mailing list of customers that you want to send post cards to.  After you've printed your list of customers, and are satisfied that the list matches the customers that should receive the post cards, cancel the Mailing Report screen, and click on the Post Cards button.  This will open WPMerge.  To assist you, we have already set up three post card documents (Thank You, Happy Birthday, and We've Missed You).  These can be opened by clicking the 1, 2, or 3 buttons on the WPMerge toolbar (top of the screen). 

Advanced users can create their own post card documents following the instructions above.  It's very important when creating a new post card document, that it is set up the same way that the default documents (under 1, 2, and 3) are set up.  This includes setting the page margins (under File then Page Setup) to the same settings (Top-1.75, Bottom-1.25, Left-1.75, Right-1.5) and making sure that the first 19 lines are used for the first customer's post card, and that the second customer's post card uses lines 20 through 38.  Also, make sure to leave enough space in the upper right corner for the stamp, and inserting the customer's mailing address below where the stamp will go (as in our examples).

The post card format is set up to be used only on Maco product #ML-8575 or Avery Dennison product #5389. These can be purchased at your local office supply store or are available from IBCS. They are packaged in a box of 50 and are 2 up on 8½x11 sheets for a total of 100 post cards per box. The finished size of each post card is 4x6 and they require a standard post card stamp.