Slimcast Messages

From FloristWiki

The Slimcast Message Program is another of the many advantages of being a Mercury subscriber. A Slimcast Message allows Mercury subscribers to transmit the same general message to a select group of Mercury participants – saving time and money. Slimcast Messages are convenient, faster and less expensive than mail sent via the Post Office.

Slimcast Messages are “slimmed down” or targeted messages used for marketing floral products, promoting upcoming functions, or communicating with fellow Network Members. Their appeal and effectiveness lie in the options provided. For example, the same message can be transmitted to just two recipients or to the entire network roster of participating Mercury Members. Target groups are Mercury subscribers selected from specific:

• florist shops
• counties
• states
• FTD districts
• provinces
• telephone area codes
• cities

Slimcast Message Content

Because the Mercury Network is a privately-owned communications network, FTD reserves the right to approve or deny the content of any Slimcast Message. Operational considerations may also require us to limit the length, timing or transmission priority.

All Slimcast Messages advertising non-FTD sponsored seminars, hardware/software from third party suppliers or any other non-FTD service, product, event, etc., must include the following disclaimer: “FTD has not endorsed or paid for, and assumes no responsibility for the content of this message.” FTD has determined that certain Slimcast Messages from retail Members could be detrimental to other Members or to the goals and objectives of your FTD or the Mercury Network. Those messages not allowed include information on:

• fax, TELEX or toll-free numbers
• employment solicitation
• store sales
• other wire service references
• non-floral related topics
• illegal lotteries or drawings
• derogatory references to FTD or the floral industry.

Preparing a Slimcast Message

To request a Slimcast Message, send a general (GEN) message to 90-0621AA. The message must be exactly as you want Members to receive it. Typographical errors cannot be corrected, nor can FTD personnel delete any information. For best results, the message should be short and visually attractive.

Next, send a second GEN message to the same number (90-0621AA). This message is instructional and must include the following information:

1. Specify the Mercury Member target group that is to receive your message.
2. Specify the transmission priority (Express, Normal, or Economy).
3. Specify the date the message is to be sent.
4. Specify any special instructions.

Slimcast Program personnel are available Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Central Time. Generally, Slimcast Message requests received before 2:00 p.m. Central Standard Time (CST) can be sent the same day, unless they require additional approvals.

Slimcast Time Guidelines

Near major floral holidays, Slimcast Messages must arrive in a florist’s store 7 days prior to the floral holiday. This policy applies to Valentine’s Day, Easter, Mother’s Day, U.S. Thanksgiving, and Christmas. Slimcast Messages dealing directly with the operation of FTD and/or the Mercury Network are excluded from this time limitation.