Recommendations for the Design of Flat-Size Mail

1. Recommendations for the Design of Flat-Size Mail Automation-Compatibility Recommendations for the AFSM 100 Joyce McGarvy Washington DC August 7, 2003

2. Objective • Identify Key Factors Contributing to Misfeeds, Missorts, and Damaged Mail • Develop a Brochure and Video Recommending Design Alternatives to Avoid Problems • Use Language that is Easy to Understand & Follow • List the 3 “R’s” (Regulation, Recommendation, Reason) • Acknowledge Current Industry Capabilities and Customer Needs - Production Equip/Cost/Creativity • Do NOT Create Additional Mailing Requirements

3. MTAC Workgroup Co-Chairs: Joyce McGarvy & George Hurst • Valassis • Time, Inc • AARP Publications • Cadmus Communications • Crain Communications • Time Customer Service • RR Donnelley • Quebecor World Logistics • Publisher’s Clearing Hse • Scholastic, Inc. • Conde Nast • Reiman Publications • G&J USA Publishing • Quad/Graphics • Advance Magazine Group • America Online • PostCom • Computerworld • Newsweek, Inc • L.L. Bean • Our Sunday Visitor, Inc. • ADVO • Mailing & Fulfillment Servs • Landmark Comm Newspapers

4. 6 Main Areas of Focus 1. General Mailpiece Structure Dimensions, Weight, Thickness, Uniformity, Flexibility,etc. 2. Bound, Unbound, and Folded Flats Bound Flats, Folded Flats, Loose Inserts 3. Saddle Stitching Number Used, Size, Tension, Placement • 4. Cover Design & Materials • Basis Weight, Cover Folds, Lacquer • 5. Polywrapped Flats • Tightness, Selvage, Seam Placement • 6. Glossary • Definitions of commonly used terms

5. Timeline/Next Steps • Several Meetings and Telecons • Last Meeting in Chicago June 9, 2003 • Future Meetings Not Required • Group To Review Drafts via eMail • Targeted Completion, Sept, 2003 • eMail Address for Comments“flatsize@email.usps.gov”