Re: The unknown % of members without email

[Neil Frank <nfrank@mindspring.com>]

Paul said
>Olga and I have been working on a survey.  As soon as it is ready, I can
>get it set up as a database.  The problem has been to try to keep it from
>being really enormous with every known species of aquatic plant in a check
>list and a long list of questions about tank parameters.

Normally response rates to surveys vary. The shorter the survey, the better
the reponse. Also, the easier you make it for the respondent, the better.
If we want a >90% response, it may be better to separate the  plant survey
from a simplier membership attitude/information survey. If each member had
1 sheet of paper with a stamped self address envelop with a few boxes to
check or fill in, they would likely send it back quickly. (Post cards can
even work at least for the US). If Jack thinks it is managable, we could
offer a small discount on the next renewal to offset the cost of stamps
from overseas. 

Just a suggestion... I am not volunteering to do it <g>

Alternatively, I could put a text box in TAG (in a prominent place) asking
people to email Jack with their address if they want to be included in the
data base. I could also mention it in the editor's page. This will only
work if people look at their magazine. (this could be another survey <g>)
--Neil