Electronic Computer-Originated Mail (E-COM)
Definition
Electronic Computer-Originated Mail (E-COM) was a special service offered by the United States Postal Service (USPS) at select post offices. This service allowed computer-generated messages to be electronically sent to another post office, where they would be printed into physical letters, inserted into special envelopes, and then delivered as first-class mail.
Examples
- Business Invoices: Businesses could automate the mailing of invoices by using E-COM, reducing the time and labor needed to print, envelope, and mail them manually.
- Newsletters: Organizations could send newsletters to members quickly and efficiently using E-COM, thus ensuring timely distribution.
- Legal Notices: Law firms and agencies could use E-COM to send legal notifications that required prompt attention, making the process faster than traditional mail methods.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What was the main benefit of using E-COM?
The main benefit of E-COM was the combination of electronic transmission and physical delivery, resulting in faster and more efficient delivery of important documents.
How did E-COM differ from traditional mailing services?
E-COM differed from traditional mailing because messages were generated electronically and transmitted between post offices before being turned into physical mail, rather than being manually posted and transported.
Was E-COM available at all post offices?
No, E-COM was only available at select post offices that had the required electronic and printing infrastructure to support this service.
Is E-COM still in use today?
No, E-COM is no longer in use. It has been succeeded by more modern digital communication methods and postal services.
Could E-COM handle bulk mailings?
Yes, E-COM could manage bulk mailings efficiently, making it a popular choice for businesses and organizations with high-volume mailing needs.
Related Terms
- First-Class Mail: A type of mail service for letters and lightweight parcels that provides faster delivery compared to standard mail.
- Electronic Data Interchange (EDI): A system for exchanging business documents between organizations electronically.
- Hybrid Mail: Systems combining electronic communication and physical mail services for document delivery.
- Postal Services: Government-run services responsible for sending and receiving letters and parcels.
Online References
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “Mail by the Pail: The History of the U.S. Postal Service” by Holly Wilson
- “Preserving the Mail: How the U.S. Postal Service Deals with Legacy Systems” by John Harwood
- “Delivering the Mail: A History of the United States Postal Service” by Alex H. Colvin
Fundamentals of Electronic Computer-Originated Mail (E-COM): Communications Basics Quiz
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