Foot in the door

Mailchimp provides a reliable and invaluable service to those attempting to run a business single-handedly. The service works around a group of subscribers signed up to receive updates and news about a person or product. Email templates can be created in a simple user interface without a coding background, making professional looking emails in seconds which are then delivered to the entire subscriber base. Mailchimp's best feature is its behind the scenes data. This tracks what happens when a subscriber receives an email, including if they opened it, if they bought anything or if they clicked on links. Data like this can be extremely important in trying to understand how to market effectively and usually requires expensive marketing firms to collect. Free plans are available with limits on certain email templates and number of subscriber with more advanced options available on a monthly sliding scale.

In demand

Mailchimp has been used by millions of users to communicate more effectively. The free tools on offer are a real boon to those just starting in promotion and marketing and can go a long way in helping kick start a business.