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BUT there has to be something that makes
HTML version better for readers, too. If you can't think of a single benefit to HTML version for your readers, then now's not time to make switch.
...................................... Is it ugly? ...................................... Designing HTML newsletters isn't nearly as easy as designing a website. For one, space you have to play with is a lot smaller. For another, readability is crucial. There are a thousand little elements that go into making a newsletter readable and it'd be impossible for me to cover them all here.
Line length needs to be optimal (40-60 characters). Contrast needs to be just right. Fonts need to be large enough (but not too large). If you don't have budget for a professional designer (yes, I know this is self serving, but it's true), you need to stick with plain text.
...................................... Is content a good fit for HTML? ...................................... I get a lot of email from people interested in having me create their HTML email newsletter template. And to at least half of them, I recommend they stick with plain text for their newsletters.
Why? Because their content makes more sense in plain text than HTML. If you write one long (long) article, plain text makes more sense. If you write lots of articles, HTML is a better choice. If you have more than three or four sections, HTML will probably be easier to navigate. For under three sections (including ads, articles, and about us sections), stick with plain text.
By asking yourself these five questions before you start an HTML option, you'll have much happier readers, and you'll ensure extra time and expense make sense for your plans.
Want more tips on newsletter design? Subscribe to Newsletters in Focus for free tips every two weeks on creating wonderful newsletters. Visit http://www.designdoodles.com/free_newsletter.htm to sign up and receive your free copy of "Do You Make These Six Mistakes in Your Company Newsletter?"
