Prospect Processing & Merge/Purge
In order to grow your housefile and spread your influence, prospecting for new donors is a must. And while it may seem a daunting task, CMDI makes it simple for you. Our merge/purge process has been continually developed and improved over the past 25 years to an efficient and accurate product for today.
What is merge/purge?
Merge/purge is the process of combining two or more files in order to identify and remove duplicates and unwanted donors. This strategic service produces the best possible list of names to contact for mail, email, advertising, or get-out-the-vote efforts. This service cuts your costs and reduces waste because you are only sending one piece to each targeted person.
Why merge/purge your data?
Deliver consistent messaging to each prospect or donor.
Track how donors and files perform for future mailings.
Accurately test segments to see what works best for your organization.
Eliminate duplicate records and save on mailing.
Remove current donors, those you don’t want to solicit, and records that won’t provide results.
How does the process work?
CMDI starts the merge/purge with all lists and files the client has rented, purchased, or created. If the goal is to acquire new donors, the client will normally use a house file as a suppression. People who requested to be removed during previous mailings are also suppressed.
Lists are coded in order to track their performance. Duplicates are usually coded with a separate multi-buyer code for a second drop occurring about 30 days later. Both the client and list brokers are provided with reports that show the number of names remaining after the merge/purge, along with the following:
Purge drops — matches to the suppression files
Multi-drops — duplication between input files
Single drops — duplication within the same file
Learn More about CMDI Services.
Schedule a call to see how CMDI can help your organization or campaign.
How do we clean up lists?
Merge/purges can be run three different ways:
Individual – one mail piece is sent to every individual in the file. Lists are de-duped using first name, last name, and address.
Household – one mail piece is sent to the head of household. Lists are de-duped by last name and address.
Residential – one mail piece is sent to each residence in the file. Lists are de-duped using the address regardless of last name.
How long does it take?
Within 48 hours of receiving a request and all data, CMDI’s efficient merge/purge process is typically complete. All submitted data is standardized, duplicate records eliminated, and existing donors suppressed.