'Real Mail Notification' lets users know when mail has arrived
PLEASE NOTE: THIS IS NOT A SERVICE THAT SMARTSOFT PROVIDES DIRECTLY. YOU NEED TO CONTACT YOUR LOCAL POST OFFICE TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT REAL MAIL NOTIFICATION OR CONTACT USPS AT 1-800-275-8777
The United States Postal Service, which is going through a well-documented budgetary crisis, is hoping to stay relevant in an increasingly paperless age by introducing new tools that leverage technology.
The agency's recently introduced "Real Mail Notification" sends a text message to the recipient of a package or letter when it arrives in the person's post office box. The USPS hopes consumers will appreciate the new service and that it can also help businesses reliant on printed materials to help promote goods and services.
"This is a great example of how mobile solutions can save time and money and increase productivity," writes industry analyst Kevin Benedict on his blog. "I only get mail a couple of times a week in my PO box, but I drive in nearly every day to check it. This costs me time, money, fuel, increased vehicle maintenance and lost opportunity costs. A simple thing like a text message notification can make a difference."
Instead of fearing technology, the USPS is hoping to use it in conjunction with its traditional service. For its part, the business community continues to use tools such as address validation software to achieve profitability.