PostalOne_System_(2008)
Slide 1:
United States Postal Service Logo in the far left top corner.
Has the heading: PostalOne!® System
The words included are:
Presented by: <insert name here>
Image Information:
PCC (Us Postal Service Postal Customer Council) Logo in far right corner.
End of Image information. 

Notes:
Thank you for inviting me to speak about Business Mail - and more specifically - sharing information about the PostalOne! system.
Let me begin by introducing myself, I am (NAME), (TITLE), with (COMPANY).
During today’s presentation, we will discuss a number of topics that will help you understand what the PostalOne! system is and how it can benefit your company.   This is a broad overview of the PostalOne! system; it you’d like a very in-depth and detailed presentation on PostalOne! I invite you to view our PCC Workshop in a Box titled the 1-2-3 of Electronic Postage Documentation.
And after the presentation, we’ll open the floor to any questions you may have and I can also let you know how you can get the 1-2-3 of Electronic Postage Documentation presentation. 
So let’s get started…
End of Slide 1.



Slide 2:
United States Postal Service Logo in the far left top corner.
Has the heading: Agenda
The words included are:
(bullet)What is Business Mail?
(bullet)What is the PostalOne! System?
(bullet)What Does PostalOne! Do?
(bullet)What Are the Benefits?
(bullet)How Can You Send Information?
(bullet)Facility Appointment & Shipment Tracking (FAST)
(bullet)Electronic Mail Improvement Reporting (eMIR)
(bullet)How Can You Get PostalOne! Access?
(bullet)Questions & Resources
Image Information:
PCC (Us Postal Service Postal Customer Council) Logo in far right corner.
End of Image information. 

Notes:
Today we will discuss the following topics regarding the PostalOne! system:
(bullet)What is Business Mail?
(bullet)What is the PostalOne! System?
(bullet)What Does PostalOne! Do?
(bullet)What Are the Benefits?
(bullet)How Can You Send Information?
(bullet)Facility Appointment & Shipment Tracking (FAST)
(bullet)Electronic Mail Improvement Reporting (eMIR)
(bullet)How Can You Get PostalOne! Access?
(bullet)Questions & Resources
If you have any questions, please save them for the end where we will have a question and answer session.  So let’s get started…
End of Slide 2.



Slide 3:
United States Postal Service Logo in the far left top corner.
Has the heading: What is Business Mail?
The words included are:
(bullet)Business mail includes all the ways mail is used to accomplish the goals of your business or organization 
(bullet)Bills, invoices, catalogs, coupons, solicitations, newsletters, magazines, merchandise and advertisements in any quantity are just some of the items businesses & organizations mail every day
Image Information:
At the bottom middle of the page is an image of a woman getting the mail and an image of a mail piece.
PCC (Us Postal Service Postal Customer Council) Logo in far right corner.
End of Image information. 

Notes:
Let’s take a few moments to discuss what puts the “BUSINESS” in business mail.  I am sure if I asked each one of you for your definition, it would rely heavily on how your business uses the mail.  You may describe it as bills, invoices, catalogs, coupons, newsletters, or merchandise.  All of these items are examples of business mail.    
Your personal definition hinges on your company’s goals and objectives, and the role mail plays in achieving them.  Are you trying to drive traffic into your store?  Are you trying to provide a convenient means for your goods to be delivered?  Or is it simply that you want to provide information to your customers?
Business Mail can support all of those objectives.  Simply put, business mail includes all the ways mail is used to accomplish the goals of your business or organization such as we have just mentioned. 
In any quantity, these are just some of the items businesses and organizations mail every day.
Whether you are starting a new organization or maintaining an established company, mail is an important tool for reaching your customers, members, or employees.  Business mail can help you:
(bullet)Attract and acquire new customers.
(bullet)Retain and grow your business by strengthening relationships with existing customers, creating new relationships, and expanding the scope of activities through new products and services.
(bullet)Fulfill orders and complete transactions. 
(bullet)Strengthen confidence in your organization through ongoing communication.
End of Slide 3.



Slide 4:
United States Postal Service Logo in the far left top corner.
Has the heading: Mailing Services
The words included are:
Choosing a Method for Mailing.
Table:
Table has 14 rows and 4 columns:
Row 1:
Column 1:
(Header)
Column 2:
(Header)Retail Services
Column 3:
(Header)Discount Services
Column 4:
(Header)Online Services

Row 2:
Column 1:
Who are you trying to reach?
Column 2:
Column 3:
Column 4:

Row 3:
Column 1:
Establish an address list
Column 2:
X
Column 3:
X
Column 4:
X

Row 4:
Column 1:
What are you mailing?
Column 2:
Column 3:
Column 4:


Row 5:
Column 1:
Design your mailpiece (size, shape, weight, and content)
Column 2:
X
Column 3:
X
Column 4:
X

Row 6:
Column 1:
How will you plan & complete your mailing?
Column 2:
Column 3:
Column 4:

Row 7:
Column 1:
Meet minimum volume requirements
Column 2:
Column 3:
X
Column 4:

Row 8:
Column 1:
Choose a mailing service
Column 2:
X
Column 3:
X
Column 4:
X

Row 9:
Column 1:
Choose a postage payment method
Column 2:
X
Column 3:
X
Column 4:
X

Row 10:
Column 1:
Construct your mailpiece
Column 2:
X
Column 3:
X
Column 4:

Row 11:
Column 1:
Sort your mail
Column 2:
Column 3:
X
Column 4:

Row 12:
Column 1:
Pay an annual mailing fee
Column 2:
Column 3:
X
Column 4:

Row 13:
Column 1:
Fill out a postage statement
Column 2:
Column 3:
X
Column 4:

Row 14:
Column 1:
Deposit your mail
Column 2:
X
Column 3:
X
Column 4:
End of table.
Image Information:
At the bottom of the table at the far right is an cartoon image of a mailbox stuff with mail, with the flag up.
PCC (Us Postal Service Postal Customer Council) Logo in far right corner.
End of Image information. 

Notes:
Depending on your needs and resources, there are three different approaches to using mail for your business.  The first approach is Retail Mailing Services.  With retail mailing services, you can easily send any quantity of mail at full postage rates without any special preparation.  Just address, add postage, and send — it’s fast and easy. Retail mailing services provide: 
(bullet)Easy mail preparation; 
(bullet)Convenient drop-off options; 
(bullet)Expedited services available.
You can also take advantage of: Discount Mailing Services.  With discount or “bulk” mailing services, you receive significant postage discounts for larger mailings by preparing & sorting your mail according to Postal Service guidelines & depositing it at designated locations.  Discount mailing services involve some extra work, but they can help you save money. 
Discount mailing services offers:
(bullet)Reduced postage costs; 
(bullet)Work share options;
(bullet)Mail design flexibility to promote your business and create a professional image.
Finally, there are Online Mailing Services.  From desktop to doorstep, online mailing services let you use your computer to upload or create postcards, letters, and newsletters.  Your mail pieces are printed, prepared, and delivered directly to your customers.  
With Online mailing services:
(bullet)No permit or mailing fees are required;
(bullet)Discounted postage rates available;
(bullet)And you can mail anytime right from your desk.
End of Slide 4.



Slide 5:
United States Postal Service Logo in the far left top corner.
Has the heading: Discount Mailing Services
The words included are:
(bullet)Discount Mail
(bullet)A proven, cost-effective business tool 
(bullet)Offers a lower price on postage for the work you perform 
(bullet)Can accommodate a variety of business needs 
(bullet)Gives your business or organization a professional image with customers 
(bullet)Can promote your business or organization name through use of permit imprint, postage meter, or PC Postage technology 
Image Information:
PCC (Us Postal Service Postal Customer Council) Logo in far right corner.
End of Image information. 

Notes:
Discount mail, or “bulk mail,” is your best option if you mail in volume.  In order to claim these lower rates, you must have a minimum quantity and do some additional work to make your mail easier for the Postal Service to handle. 
As an example, a presort mailing where the postage is paid with a permit imprint must have a minimum of 200 pieces or 50 pounds.  There are varying requirements depending on the class of mail, type of postage payment, and work share discount you’re applying for.  
Advantages of Discount Mail Include:
(bullet)It is a proven, cost-effective business tool; 
(bullet)It offers a lower price on postage for the work you perform; 
(bullet)It can accommodate a variety of business needs;
(bullet)It gives your business or organization a professional image with customers; 
(bullet)And it can promote your business or organization name through use of permit imprint, postage meter, or PC Postage technology. 
Discount Mailing Works as Follows: Your discount depends on the mailing service you choose and the work you do. For example, if you mail 1,000 letter-sized flyers to everyone in your ZIP Code advertising your business's sale, it would cost $0.42 per piece for retail First-Class postage, or $420.
If you mail 1,000 flyers using Standard Mail to everyone in your ZIP Code by adding a barcode, sorting them by carrier route, and depositing them at the sectional center facility post office that sorts their delivery, you might pay as little as $0.137 per piece, or $137.
End of Slide 5.



Slide 6:
United States Postal Service Logo in the far left top corner.
Has the heading: Discount Mailing Services
The words included are:
(bullet)Discount Mail
(bullet)Work you do, such as preparing, sorting, and entering your mailing, can lower your postage costs 
(bullet)Requires annual mailing fee of $180 at each facility where you enter mail
(bullet)Optional aspects of a discount mailing (use of permit imprints, business reply mail, or mailing endorsements) may require additional fees
(bullet)Requires additional documentation be submitted with mailing to identify work share
Image Information:
PCC (Us Postal Service Postal Customer Council) Logo in far right corner.
End of Image information. 

Notes:
If you choose to use the discount mailing option, there are some additional costs and documentation requirements that you should consider.
Discount Mail Costs:
(bullet)The postage depends on the mailing service you choose and the characteristics of your mailpiece. for any discount mailing, you must do some of the work the Postal Service would otherwise do.  
(bullet)Work you do, such as preparing, sorting & entering your mailing, can lower your postage costs. 
(bullet)You must pay an annual mailing fee of $180 at each facility where you enter mail. Different mailing services may require separate fees. 
(bullet)Other optional aspects of a discount mailing, such as using permit imprints, business reply mail, or mailing endorsements, may require additional fees. 
Since you will be claiming discounts for additional work that you are performing there is certain documentation that must be submitted to the Postal Service to identify the work that you have done so that we can verify that it is accurate. 
Additional documentation required with the mailing include Presort documentation and  Postage Statements.  These documents tell the Postal Service what type of presort level you have sorted to, where the mail is going and what rate was claimed.
This is where PostalOne! becomes important as it offers an electronic option for submitting this mailing documentation to the USPS.  So, now let’s shift gears & focus on the PostalOne! system.
End of Slide 6.



Slide 7:
United States Postal Service Logo in the far left top corner.
Has the heading: What Is the PostalOne! System?
The words included are:
(bullet)USPS Information Management System
(bullet)Supports business processes of the Business Mail Entry Unit (BMEU) [verifying, accepting & paying postage] for your bulk business mail
(bullet)Designed to transform the business mailing experience to an Internet (Web-based) process by offering a suite of electronic features & services
(bullet)Centralized payment processing 
(bullet)Electronic document processing
(bullet)Online account & mailing information
Image Information:
PCC (Us Postal Service Postal Customer Council) Logo in far right corner.
End of Image information. 

Notes:
Today, some customers no longer provide hardcopy documents and postage statements. They submit their mailing information to PostalOne! electronically where it is presented to the acceptance unit to verify the mail & release of postage statements for automatic account withdrawal.
Customers monitor activity online viewing postage estimates for the mailing, statements processed, remaining pieces to mail, and so forth. 
The system also provides all processing data back to the customer in an electronic format for use within their own systems. The PostalOne! system provides a data exchange process that facilitates electronic information sharing between our customers and multiple USPS information systems. 
It provides Web-based capabilities enabling access to information and data sharing for all user types; from the technically sophisticated high volume complex presort mailers, to the point and click simple presort mail walk in customer.
The system still supports all of the business functions necessary to process mailings using customer provided hardcopy mailing documents. However, the web based technology provides many more advantages.
We recently added online views for customers to access their mailing information. You just log in and can view your account information, deposits, withdrawals, fee information, and each mailing statement that has been processed. 
End of Slide 7.



Slide 8:
United States Postal Service Logo in the far left top corner.
Has the heading: What Does PostalOne! Do? 
Image Information:
Blue box with the word 'Customers' inside it with a arrow pointing to a yellow box with the word 'Electronic Mailing 
Information' inside it; an arrow from that to a desktop computer with the words 'PostalOne!' under the desktop computer; from that is a series of 4 arrows pointing from the desktop computer to 4 sets of words as follows (starting at the top arrow going down):
Arrow 1: Presents Mailing Documents
Arrow 2: Automates Postage Payment Processing
Arrow 3: Facilitates Drop Shipment Scheduling
Arrow 4: Provides Account Access & Mailing Information
PCC (Us Postal Service Postal Customer Council) Logo in far right corner.
End of Image information. 

Notes:
In today’s mailing process you (or your mailer) are probably performing most of it electronically. You enter your mailing list into some presort software, add the piece attributes (size, weight, etc…) and sort the list to qualify for discounts. This electronic information enables you to prepare your mailing in a manner to receive those discounts. Then you have to convert the electronic information into hardcopy (presort documentation and postage statements) so that you can present the mailing to the BMEU for verification and acceptance. 
The presort software produces a hardcopy output of the necessary documents. For some, its simpler than that. You place your address labels on your envelopes, put them in some presort order, write up your presort documentation, fill out your postage statement and bring the mail into the post office. Whether you use a mailing service or prepare your own the Postal Service wants to get your information in an electronic rather than hardcopy format, which is exactly what PostalOne! is designed to do.
Once you send your electronic information to PostalOne!, via the Internet, the PostalOne! system will validate your information and queue it up at the BMEU where your mail will be verified.  Depending on the format you choose to electronically submit your mail – mail.dat, web services, or the postage statement wizard - acceptance personnel will verify your mail and then submit the postage for processing and account debit. You no longer have to wait for them to enter the statement into the system. 
When you return to your office all of your mailing information is available to you on your desktop computer and has been provided for you in an electronic format for your own use. In the near future you will be able to use your mailing information to perform other business functions such as schedule appointments to drop ship your mail. 
End of Slide 8.



Slide 9:
United States Postal Service Logo in the far left top corner.
Has the heading: What Is Available?
The words included are:
(bullet)Available Features
(bullet)Electronic mailing documentation, automated postage statement processing & online account access
(bullet)Online account management & automated drop shipment processing
Image Information:
PCC (Us Postal Service Postal Customer Council) Logo in far right corner.
End of Image information. 

Notes:
Electronic Documentation is an online view of the presort documents and postage statements that you produce in hardcopy today. This enables acceptance personnel to validate a postage statement, edit it for piece count or weight discrepancies & submit it, eliminating manual entry & the potential for errors. 
These features are available for high-volume mailers who transmit electronic information via Mail.dat and Wizard Web Service.  Mail Owners have an online view of account information such as; account types, balances, fee status, transaction history, etc. The centralized account payment capability (CAPS) is available for all customers who want to use debit or EFT funding processes for their account & allows customers to link their various account.
Other features currently available - the ability for the customer to automatically schedule a drop shipment appointment & drop mail without providing the 8125 form.  Once the appointment is complete & you submit payment for the mail, PostalOne! will create your 8125 information & submit it to the destination entry facility.  They will use scanners to unload & check in your mail at the facility. These features are in the pilot stage. 
End of Slide 9.



Slide 10:
United States Postal Service Logo in the far left top corner.
Has the heading: What Are the Benefits?
Image Information:
Blue box with the word 'Customers' inside it with a arrow pointing to a yellow box with the word 'Mailing 
Information' inside it; an arrow from that to a desktop computer with the words 'PostalOne!' under the desktop computer; then the arrow points to a yellow box with the word 'Benefits' inside it, then the arrow points back to the first blue box with the word 'Customers' inside it;from the desktop computer is a series of 4 arrows pointing from the desktop computer to 5 sets of words as follows (starting at the top arrow going down):
Arrow 1: Eliminates Hardcopy Paperwork
Arrow 2: Improved Service with Automated Processes
Arrow 3: Offers Centralized Payment Options
Arrow 4: Integrates Business Functions
Arrow 4: Online Process Management:
(bullet)Mailing Activity
(bullet)Payments
(bullet)Plan & Schedule
(bullet)Mailing Quality Feedback.
PCC (Us Postal Service Postal Customer Council) Logo in far right corner.
PCC (Us Postal Service Postal Customer Council) Logo in far right corner.
End of Image information. 

Notes:
End of Slide 10.



Slide 11:
United States Postal Service Logo in the far left top corner.
Has the heading: What Exactly Is Centralized Payment?
The words included are:
(bullet)Electronic postage payment system that provides a centralized, convenient, and cost-effective way to fund their account
(bullet)ACH credit/Fed wire (trust account)
(bullet)ACH debit 
(bullet)Electronic alternative to presenting checks and cash for postage and fees at multiple post offices
Image Information:
PCC (Us Postal Service Postal Customer Council) Logo in far right corner.
End of Image information. 

Notes:
The Centralized Account Processing System (CAPS) is a postage payment system designed to make payment for all classes of mail easier & more cost-effective for the business mailer. It provides electronic options as alternatives to presenting checks & cash in person at each mailing post office.
A centralized payment portal can be used to pay for mailings at multiple locations eliminating the need for making deposits at numerous post offices. 
There are two alternatives for paying for mailings through your centralized account.  They are through a centralized trust account or a centralized debit account.  For a Centralized Trust Account, you transfer funds electronically--via standard ACH credit/ Fed wire banking mechanisms-- to your centralized payment account prior to mailing. Your centralized payment account is then reduced automatically as postage statements are processed by local offices. 
With a Centralized Debit Account, your designated bank account will be debited--via standard ACH debit banking mechanisms--for the total of the day's mailings on the next business day.
For more information on CAPS you can go to usps.com and search on CAPS or use the url:  http://caps.usps.gov/capshome.asp
End of Slide 11.



Slide 12:
United States Postal Service Logo in the far left top corner.
Has the heading: How Can You Send Information?
The words included are:
(bullet)Structured approach to electronic documentation and postage that offers options for all mailers:
(bullet)Mail.dat®
(bullet)File-based electronic exchange
(bullet)Web Services
(bullet)Form-based electronic exchange
(bullet)Postage Statement Wizard®
(bullet)Postage statements online
(bullet)Allows Mailer to choose the one best suited for them
Image Information:
At the far right is an image of a desktop computer with the words ' 
(bullet)Mail.dat® 
(bullet)Web Services
(bullet)PS Wizard' 
on the computer monitor and the words 'PostalOne!®' under the keyboard.
PCC (Us Postal Service Postal Customer Council) Logo in far right corner.
End of Image information. 

Notes:
To effectively & efficiently use electronic processes there is a need for governance & standards. So, we have developed a structured electronic information approach employing three data exchange options to accommodate the various levels of sophistication that commercial customers represent.  
(1) The industry standard Mail.dat™ file-based electronic exchange process provides a platform to support large mailers with complex mail preparation schemes.  
(2) The Web Services platform is a form-based electronic alternative that supports a variety of mailing profiles through an XML electronic format. 
(3) The Postage Statement Wizard is an on-line option that any mailer with a desktop browser can use to complete and submit postage statements. 
All three options will facilitate automated processing of postage for all classes of mail, and will greatly relieve business mail acceptance personnel from the onerous task of manually entering postage statements. The Postal Service is committed to migrating customers to PostalOne! & advocating electronic processes such as documentation and payment.
With no hard & fast rules about which process is right for a mailer, some observations are:
Mail.dat™ : Requires software development or commercial software packages.
(bullet)Primarily used to drive (automate) the mail manufacturing, transporting & induction processes
(bullet)Primarily high volume Standard and Periodical mailers performing simple to very complex preparation schemes and zone skipping work share.
Web Services:  USPS provided specifications to support high-volume mailers not needing level of detail required in Mail.dat, such as most First-Class mailers.
(bullet)Requires software development (i.e., could be Presort software vendor developed)
(bullet)Supports customer specific solution and information presentation.
Postage Statement Wizard : Any mailer who wants to submit an online postage statement
(bullet)No software development required.  Hardcopy documentation must still be provided.
End of Slide 12.



Slide 13:
United States Postal Service Logo in the far left top corner.
Has the heading: Mail.dat® 
The words included are:
(bullet)Mail.dat® is an industry controlled specification managed by IDEAlliance, a non-profit organization that requires membership
(bullet)IDEAlliance provides governance necessary to “standardize” information protocols
(bullet)A comprehensive “supply chain” relational data file
(bullet)Normally used in high volume, complex preparation schemes
Image Information:
PCC (Us Postal Service Postal Customer Council) Logo in far right corner.
End of Image information. 

Notes:
The Mail.dat® file set currently consists of related files.  Most of these files are optional, and their use depends on the level of functionality that a customer is looking for.  
The files contain the level of detail that the Postal Service needs to gather mailing and rate information, and to begin to provide a forecasting capability for the volumes of mail destined for Postal entry points. 
Perhaps even more importantly, it provides a standard format for electronically transmitting this in-depth information, allowing for a wide base of customer participation. The ability to generate a Mail.dat file currently exists on most commercial presort software.
The file can be transmitted to the Postal Service either by server to server in an automated process or by using your desktop to select and send the mailing files you want to present mailings for. 
Your Mail.dat data file is then processed by the PostalOne! system where it calculates the postage charges and produces an overall “estimated” postage statement for a specified mailing. It also formats the data to provide an online view of the presort documentation that can be searched in a variety of ways.
As your mailing lifecycle continues you are able to send update files to identify specific mailings, entry point drops, or other allowable changes as well as edit or cancel data about your mailing. 
PostalOne! tracks all of the activities related to the mailing during the acceptance and verification process from job submit to close out. This information is available to the mail owner as well as the service provider preparing and presenting the mailing.
End of Slide 13.



Slide 14:
United States Postal Service Logo in the far left top corner.
Has the heading: Mail.dat® Process 
Image Information:
(There are only 2 desktop computers and each one has the words "Customer" and "PostalOne!".)
There is a image of a desktop computer with the words 'Customer' under the image and a arrow pointing to a yellow box with the words '2. Mailer presents mail to USPS®' under it; a arrow pointing to a yellow box with the words '3. USPS® accesses information on PostalOne!®' under it; there is an arrow pointing from this yellow box to a desktop computer with the words 'PostalOne!' under the image at the far top right corner;  a arrow pointing to a yellow box with the words '4. USPS® performs MERLIN® or manual verification' under it; a arrow pointing to a yellow box with the words '5. USPS® validates deducts postage' under it; a arrow pointing to a yellow box with the words '6. Data returned to mailer for online viewing' under it; there is an arrow pointing from this yellow box to a desktop computer with the words 'PostalOne!' under the image at the far top right corner that was mentioned earlier above.
Between the 1st and 2nd desktop computer that each one has the words "Customer" and "PostalOne!" is these words:
'1. Send original Mail.dat® file', there is a blue arrow and below it is the words:
'2. Send update Mail.dat® file', pointing to the 2nd desktop computer withe the word 'PostalOne!'under it.
PCC (Us Postal Service Postal Customer Council) Logo in far right corner.
End of Image information. 

Notes:
Mailer sends their mailing information using the Mail.dat™ file format to PostalOne!. Though the file contains extremely detailed information about the mailing, details down to the characteristics of the components within the envelope, you are only required to submit the file attributes relevant to verifying and paying postage on the mailing. The first transmission usually consists of the entire information regarding the mailing. During the file transmission process you will receive information on your browser to indicate the status of the transfer. 
Upon receipt of the file, the PostalOne! system processes the file and calculates the “estimated” postage charges, and provides an online view of the mailing presort documentation. As the mailing release cycle begins the mailer submits update files to represent the segment of the mailing they are entering into the mail stream at that time. For the update transmission the mailer will flag the file as “Ready to Pay” and the system will process a “preliminary” statement and present it to the BMEU. All of these transmission serve as advance notice to the USPS regarding what mail is inbound to them.
The mailer presents the mail to USPS acceptance unit where the online documents are used to verify the mail preparation or the mail is subjected to a verification on the MERLIN system. Once the verification is completed the acceptance clerk enters the results into the PostalOne! system and then accesses the postage statement to review it for accuracy. 
If an error is discovered during verification that requires a postage adjustment then the BMEU clerk will adjust the postage statement in PostalOne!  If there are errors in the postage statement, such as incorrect piece count the clerk can make the edits to the statement. Once everything is in order the clerk then submits the statement for processing. As these transaction are processed you will receive “receipt” files indicating what the results were of the postage deduction.
The system processes the transaction and transmits receipt files back to the mailer as well as provides all the information to the mailer via their browser.
End of Slide 14.



Slide 15:
United States Postal Service Logo in the far left top corner.
Has the heading: Web Services
The words included are:
(bullet)USPS® controlled specification that requires no fee for use
(bullet)Leverages mature XML technology
(bullet)Enables mailer to convert data outputs to electronic forms to submit to USPS®
(bullet)Enables mailer to develop own browser “look & feel”
(bullet)Enables dynamic messaging to facilitate automating processes
Image Information:
PCC (Us Postal Service Postal Customer Council) Logo in far right corner.
End of Image information. 

Notes:
The USPS has embraced Web Services technology to provide another means of submitting electronic mailing information. This technology has reached a maturation level proving its capability of supporting B2B (Business to Business) Internet commerce. Governance and guidance of this technology is provided by the World Wide Web Consortium (WC3), an organization that has been instrumental in standardizing its use. 
One major benefit of using this technology is that it facilitates communications between non-compatible information systems. For example, data from an IBM system can be packaged up & sent to an Oracle system. Today there are many development tools available to assist businesses in developing & using this electronic information capability. PostalOne! has developed technical specifications that allows customers to build their own solutions to transmit mailing information to us.
Think of it as a “form-based” set of information. USPS provides instruction on what data fields to submit to PostalOne!. You build your screens as you want to see & manage your information, or if you already have views of your information, you build the capability to package it to send to USPS. 
Basically, you log on, open a session, identify a “group” (a transmission package), then transmit the information you want regarding that group & then close the group. The group can remain open should you want to submit additional documents or update information over time. 
For example, you open a group and send a qualification report & a statement & end your session. Next day you reopen the group & send more postage statements. The third day you open the group, send another statement, then close the group which would conclude the mailing job. As PostalOne! receives your information it’s available to the BMEU to perform verification & acceptance functions. Each time you log onto PostalOne! you can retrieve transaction results & conduct transactions. 
Current documents supported by Web Services are:
(bullet)All Domestic Postage Statements 
(bullet)Mailing Qualification Report 
End of Slide 15.



Slide 16:
United States Postal Service Logo in the far left top corner.
Has the heading: Web Services Process 
Image Information:
(There are only 2 desktop computers and each one has the words "Customer" and "PostalOne!".)
There is a image of a desktop computer with the words 'Customer' under the image and a arrow pointing to a yellow box with the words '2. Mailer presents mail to USPS®' under it; a arrow pointing to a yellow box with the words '3. USPS® accesses information on PostalOne!®' under it; there is an arrow going through a  with what appears to be a mailpiece pointing from this yellow box to a desktop computer with the words 'PostalOne!' under the image at the far top right corner;  a arrow pointing to a yellow box with the words '4. USPS® performs MERLIN® or manual verification' under it; a arrow pointing to a yellow box with the words '5. USPS® validates & 
deducts postage (all domestic statements)' under it; a arrow pointing to a yellow box with the words ' 6. Message sent to Mailer that data is available for online viewing' under it; there is an arrow pointing from this yellow box to a desktop computer with the words 'PostalOne!' under the image at the far top right corner that was mentioned earlier above.
Between the 1st and 2nd desktop computer that each one has the words "Customer" and "PostalOne!" is these words:
'1. Send PS Forms & Qualification Report', there is a blue arrow pointing to the 2nd desktop computer withe the word 'PostalOne!'under it.
PCC (Us Postal Service Postal Customer Council) Logo in far right corner.
End of Image information. 

Notes:
End of Slide 16.



Slide 17:
United States Postal Service Logo in the far left top corner.
Has the heading: Postage Statement Wizard®
The words included are:
(bullet)Online tool that allows access to USPS® forms via any desktop browser
(bullet)Supports postage statements 
(bullet)Complete form & submit online
Image Information:
PCC (Us Postal Service Postal Customer Council) Logo in far right corner.
End of Image information. 

Notes:
Using the Postage Statement Wizard submit feature provides you with a secure way to complete and submit domestic postage statements. The Wizard walks you through a set data entry of criteria that will select the appropriate postage statement for you. You then input mailing data and the postage is calculated for you. You will complete the postage statement and click the submit button and the statement will be transmitted to the BMEU where your mailing account is established.  Hardcopy supporting documentation is still required with the Postage Statement Wizard.
It will provide you with an ID (identification) number that you will present to the acceptance clerk along with your mailing.
Once the mail is accepted the acceptance clerks submits the statement for processing and when your return to your office all of the information is available on your desktop computer.
End of Slide 17.



Slide 18:
United States Postal Service Logo in the far left top corner.
Has the heading: Benefits
The words included are:
(bullet)Eliminates hardcopy Postage Statements
(bullet)Reduces wait times
(bullet)Provides access to financial & historical information
(bullet)Provides reports
Image Information:
PCC (Us Postal Service Postal Customer Council) Logo in far right corner.
End of Image information. 

Notes:
There are many benefits that can be reaped from using the Postage Statement Wizard. 
The Wizard simplifies the process of completing Postage Statements.  
It will reduce wait times at the BMEU since clerks will not have to spend as much time completing manual entry of Postage Statements.  
In addition, mailers using the PS Wizard will have a PostalOne! Log on which will give you access to financial and historical mailing information to help you better manage your business.
End of Slide 18.



Slide 19:
United States Postal Service Logo in the far left top corner.
Has the heading: Postage Statement Wizard® Process
Image Information:
There is a cartoon woman sitting at a desktop computer that below it has the words 'Note: The user can save work at any stage along the way.'.
At the right of this image is a yellow box that has the words 'Log on to PostalOne!' inside it and then a arrow pointing to another yellow box with the words 'Select a Form' inside it; a arrow pointing to the words 
'Enter 
(bullet)Permit 
(bullet)User Information
(bullet)Mailing Characteristics'; a arrow pointing to the words 
'Go to the Appropriate Section'(under this is the words '
A
B
C
D
Etc.'.); another yellow box with the words 'Complete Sections & Review' inside it (under this is an image of a mail piece'; another yellow box with the words 'Submit Online' inside it; another yellow box with the words 'Present Mail to BMEU' inside it; another yellow box with the words 'BMEU Accesses Information' inside it; another yellow box with the words 'BMEU Accepts and Verifies' inside it; lastly, another yellow box with the words 'BMEU Deducts Postage' inside it.
PCC (Us Postal Service Postal Customer Council) Logo in far right corner.
End of Image information. 

Notes:
As I just explained in the prior slide, the Postage Statement Wizard offers mailers a Web-based method of completing Postage Statements.  This slide will give you an idea of how the process actually works.
The Wizard prompts you to follow a step-by-step process for completing forms. Once you log on to PostalOne! you are prompted to select the appropriate form where you must input your user information and mailing information.  
Then you must complete the appropriate sections of the form, review and submit the form online.  Then you can present just your mailing and documentation to the BMEU clerk who will access your postage statement online and complete the acceptance and verification activities.
Once acceptance and verification activities are complete, the BMEU will deduct postage automatically from your account.
End of Slide 19.



Slide 20:
United States Postal Service Logo in the far left top corner.
Has the heading: Facility Access & Shipment Tracking (FAST) 
The words included are:
(bullet)Simplified Scheduling Processes
Electronic options providing mailing information
(bullet)Improved Operational Efficiency
When postal facilities understand customer requirements ahead of time, appointment slots can be offered based on capacity
(bullet)Encourages Timely, Accurate Appointments
Mailers who provide accurate content details and arrive on time will have the widest selection of appointment slots
Image Information:
A snapshot of the United States Postal Service Website at the 'Facility Access and Shipment Tracking (FAST)' webpage.
PCC (Us Postal Service Postal Customer Council) Logo in far right corner.
End of Image information. 

Notes:
The Postal Service has replaced the Drop Shipment Appointment System (DSAS) with the Facility Access and Shipment Tracking System (FAST) to enhance appointment scheduling capabilities.  FAST enables schedulers to inquire, create, update & cancel appointment requests for plant verified drop shipments & provide all necessary details about the mailing contents.  FAST provides up-to-date information about what mail can be entered at which facilities & provides request responses, appointment status & closeout information back to the schedulers.
The main objective of FAST is to improve dock efficiency time.  FAST will provide advance notification of inbound mail volumes to Surface Visibility & will use scan data from Surface Visibility to automatically close & track appointments.  FAST will also integrate with other USPS systems such as the Drop Ship Product & Facilities Database for a more streamlined data maintenance & distribution process to improve the current data latency & discrepancy issues.
All customers needing access to FAST are required to become participants of PostalOne!.  Once an account is established, customers can access FAST appointment-related services as follows:
FAST Website Online Scheduling - After logging into PostalOne!, schedulers go directly to the FAST website to schedule appointments online.  Using this online option, all appointment and content information will be entered manually by the customer.  With this method, there is no communication of information through the PostalOne! system other than login authentication.
PostalOne! Automated Data Exchange Capability - Once a scheduler has logged into PostalOne!, they send appointment & content information through PostalOne! to FAST.  Appointment availability is determined & a response message is sent from FAST, via PostalOne!, back to the customer. 
Customers using the suite of electronic services provided by PostalOne! (e.g., postage payment & eDocumentation) will be able to leverage their existing Mail.dat information to facilitate their appointment scheduling process.
End of Slide 20.



Slide 21:
United States Postal Service Logo in the far left top corner.
Has the heading: Electronic Mail Improvement Report (eMIR)
The words included are:
(bullet)Replaces old hardcopy PS Form 3749 
(bullet)Web-enabled business process that:
(bullet)Identifies issues impacting efficient processing of business mailings
(bullet)Informs process owners of identified deficiencies and impacts to mailing efficiency
(bullet)Improves business processes through information management and reporting capabilities
Image Information:
PCC (Us Postal Service Postal Customer Council) Logo in far right corner.
End of Image information. 

Notes:
A new electronic process has been developed for providing feedback to mailers.  
The Electronic Mail Improvement Reporting (eMIR) system was developed to replace a formerly manual process that utilized PS From 3749 to report Irregularities in Mail Preparation.
With eMIR, an employee at a postal processing facility can file an electronic report of any problem that they encounter with a mailing.  
Information is taken from the mailpiece and the container label and recorded in eMIR.  
The issue is electronically forwarded to the office where the mailing was accepted.
The Business Mail Entry office or the Business Service Network at the acceptance location will contact the mail preparer or owner and discuss the nature of the problem and assist with identifying a resolution to prevent the problem from recurring. 
The resolution is recorded in eMIR to close out the issue.  Information is then available for all parties to view and produce reports.
End of Slide 21.



Slide 22:
United States Postal Service Logo in the far left top corner.
Has the heading: Accessing eMIR
The words included are:
(bullet)Provides visibility to mail owners/preparers with reported problems
(bullet)Log into PostalOne!®
(bullet)Click on Reports and then click the link to eMIR
Image Information:
At the bottom middle of the page is an snapshot of the United States Postal Service Website at the 'Reports' webpage.
There is a yellow arrow pointing to 'far left navigational menu list' on the snapshot of the webpage, with the words 'Click Reports'inside the yellow arrow.
There is a yellow arrow pointing to 'Electronic Mail Improvement Report' link in the middle of the snapshot of the webpage, with the words 'Click eMIR Link'inside the yellow arrow.
PCC (Us Postal Service Postal Customer Council) Logo in far right corner.
End of Image information. 

Notes:
Mailers will now have electronic access to their eMIR reports.
These reports are part of the Mail Owner access in the PostalOne! system.  
End of Slide 22.



Slide 23:
United States Postal Service Logo in the far left top corner.
Has the heading: Feedback & Resolution
Image Information:
A snapshot of the United States Postal Service Website at the 'Electronic Mail Improvement: Report Details' webpage.
PCC (Us Postal Service Postal Customer Council) Logo in far right corner.
End of Image information. 

Notes:
Mailers will be able to see report details that will provide information necessary to identify and correct issues with their mail.  This includes where the problem occurred, type of problem and mailpiece details.
Reports may also contain images to further identify issues. 
(Note: Mailers have access to only their own report information). Aggregate reports are also available to identify trends on mailing quality
End of Slide 23.



Slide 24:
United States Postal Service Logo in the far left top corner.
Has the heading: Feedback & Resolution
Image Information:
Image of a bar chart and a table.
Bar Chart:
Title:
"Distribution of Mail SubProblems
Container Type: Package  Parent Problem: Plastic Strap"
End of Title.
Number 0-35 at the far left.
4 Bars:
Bar 1:
Red
(appears to be:) number 33 inside it.
The words 'Slipped Off' under the red bar.
Bar 2:
Yellow
number 6 inside it.
The word 'Broken' under the yello bar.
Bar 3:
Green
number 12 inside it.
The words 'Insufficient amount' under the green bar.
Bar 4:
Blue
number 16 inside it.
The words 'Other' under the blue bar.
End of Bar Chart Image.

Table:
Table has 6 rows and 3 columns:
Row 1:
Column 1:
(Header)Type of Problem
Column 2:
(Header)No. of Errors
Column 3:
(Header)Error Rate (%)


Row 2:
Column 1:
Slipped off
Column 2:
33
Column 3:
49.25%

Row 3:
Column 1:
Broken
Column 2:
6
Column 3:
8.96%

Row 4:
Column 1:
Insufficient Amount
Column 2:
12
Column 3:
17.91%

Row 5:
Column 1:
Other
Column 2:
16
Column 3:
23.88%

Row 6:
Column 1:
Total
Column 2:
67
Column 3:
100%
End of Table Image.
PCC (Us Postal Service Postal Customer Council) Logo in far right corner.
End of Image information. 

Notes:
Reports are also available to mailers to identify trends on mailing quality.
End of Slide 24.



Slide 25:
United States Postal Service Logo in the far left top corner.
Has the heading: How Can You Get PostalOne! Access?
The words included are:
(bullet)Complete the online application and submit it electronically
(bullet)PostalOne!® Customer Care Center will process your application and send a Welcome Kit to the email address you provide.  Contact them at:           1- (800) 522-9085 
(bullet)Welcome Kit will contain additional forms requiring signatures
Image Information:
PCC (Us Postal Service Postal Customer Council) Logo in far right corner.
End of Image information. 

Notes:
To apply for a PostalOne! logon ID you go to http://www.usps.com/postalone/howto.htm and complete the online application. It’s simple. 
Just follow the directions in the application and submit it electronically. 
The PostalOne!® Help Desk will process your application and send a Welcome Kit to the e-mail address you provide.
The Welcome Kit you will receive will contain additional forms requiring signatures. 
The forms are as follows: 
A User Agreement that details your responsibilities for participation. 
You will be provided a lit based on your information access needs. 
There are two types of agreements; Data Exchange Agreement for, Mail Preparer, CAPS payment, and FAST and System Access Agreement for Mail Owner access. 
Site Administrator Designation Form that you must complete to designate a coordinator for your company to oversee administrative requirements and manage your users access.
Customer Request for Web Access, PS Form 1357-C is a form you must complete to obtain a username and password for access and mail to the Help Desk. A signed hardcopy is required after your approval signatures have been obtained.
Once the necessary paperwork has been processed, your customer account will be activated. Each person in your organization requiring access will receive an e-mail message with a username and instructions to call the Help Desk for their password.
End of Slide 25.



Slide 26:
United States Postal Service Logo in the far left top corner.
Has the heading: Resources for Additional Information
The words included are:
(bullet)PostalOne!® 
www.usps.com/postalone/howto.htm
(bullet)Mail.dat® 
www.usps.com/postalone/guides.htm
(bullet)IDEAlliance 
www.idealliance.org 
(bullet)Web Services 
www.usps.com/postalone/guides.htm
(bullet)Postage Statement Wizard® www.usps.com/forms/postagewizard.htm
Image Information:
PCC (Us Postal Service Postal Customer Council) Logo in far right corner.
End of Image information. 

Notes:
Here are some additional resources that can you can access to learn more about the various data exchange options with PostalOne!
End of Slide 26.



Slide 27:
United States Postal Service Logo in the far left top corner.
The words included are:
Questions?
Image Information:
PCC (Us Postal Service Postal Customer Council) Logo in far right corner.
End of Image information. 

Notes:
Questions?
Thank You.
End of Slide 27.