Make sure it is postage paid, since that is the very first barrier that will affect your return rate. Also, keep in mind that the response rate is inversely proportionate with the number of questions asked. Business and consumer demographic data, such as SIC code, age, income, and more can all be determined via profiles and file enhancements. Even a reduction by one or two questions can make a difference. Remember, you must factor lifetime customer value.
Some software publishers offer a free quarterly newsletter upon return of the registration card.
Others offer participation in a free monthly drawing for products. Some firms seek out strategic partnerships with other software companies who would offer a free limited edition of their product upon registration. In this situation, both firms benefit with the capture of the name with the firm offering the free limited edition having an excellent upgrade prospect. Electronic registration is also being explored by many software publishers, since modems are a fairly standard feature on new PC systems being sold today. Many firms are incorporating programming within their installation modules that will seek out a modem, ask a few questions, and then electronically transfer the data via an 800 number to a centralized system.