Consumer Reports Foundation

When More Is Too Much
December 19, 2006

When it comes to direct mail, the saying about less being more often is true. Sometimes, more of something is just that: more. And for direct mail especially, more elements can make packages feel cluttered and recipients overwhelmed. That’s my impression of this mailing from the Consumer Reports Foundation. Inside the 4.5-inch-by-10.5-inch outer envelope are eight additional elements. First, there’s the reply device, which includes the ask: Consumer Reports is doing a raffle. Ticket stubs have been included in the mailing, but a contribution to the Consumer Reports Foundation is requested. Actually, there is only a “Yes” box next to the ask, and it’s