Autoresponder:
Autoresponder or automatic responder is a software that sends emails automatically once you set it up according to your needs.
Autoresponders can be in different languages like php, perl, asp etc. The database can be text based (means the data is stored in text files) or Mysql based (means data is stored in mysql database).
Web based autoresponder:
Autoresponder that you can access through your browser. You can access your autoresponder anywhere as long as you have a computer (not necessarily yours) and internet connection.
PC based autoresponder:
Autoresponder that you have to install on your Personal computer. You need to carry your PC to access it. You need internet connection to send the email from it (connection with mail server is needed from your installed software).
Advantages and disadvantages of both web based and PC based autoresponders
Autoresponder service:
Third party company that provides autoresponders for you or your company. They send emails on your behalf. You can manage your autoresponders through the web based interface provided by them to you.
Self-hosted Autoresponder:
You host your autoresponder either on your web site (called web based autoresponder) or on your PC (PC based autoresponder). Opposite of 'Autoresponder service' where other company hosts autoresponder and provide service to you.
Sequential emailings:
Emails going in a sequence that are preset up by you. These emails are also called 'follow up messages'. Example: If you set up 7 messages to go out on alternate days, your autoresponder software send 7 messages in 14 days.
Broadcast emailings:
Email messages that you send as one time emails. Example: Newsletters, announcements of your products, discount offers, web site updates to members.
WYSIWYG editor:
WYSIWYG editor is an abbreviation for 'What You See Is What You Get' editor. Usually your autoresponder is equipped with these editors for you to easily customize the html emails. Examples: TinyMCE editor, FCKeditor
HTML Email format:
Emails that contain html code and your subscriber sees email as web page with all colors and graphics.
Text email format:
Emails that contain plain text and your subscriber sees them as plain and simple text.
