The left hand column gives a rundown of the options available to the fleXengine user. The image and text choices build personal libraries to save for future jobs.

In this example, as an individual "user", we have chosen to create a new postcard by entering the 'jobs' section and clicking on "create new postcard". Two previous jobs already exist from earlier postcards built in this account.

After selecting , the user enters the postcard size (options include 4x6, 5x7, and 6x9.) Here we choose the 6x9, and call this job "directflex1". Postcard sizes and styles are adjustable at the system level, as directed by franchise management.

The next stop is to select the card front template. Directflex will work with franchise management to develop postcard templates that best fit the image and industry of the franchise. Here we choose the generic twin vertical image template.

Next is the selection of the background. The user clicks the background wanted from the selection above, and the background is entered. Background choices are also adjustable at the system/franchise level. Note at this time the "toolbox" (red button) becomes available; here it can be used to adjust or scale the color, or drag the background to different positions on the card.

Here is where the user places images onto the template via drag and drop. The gallery opens up with all images available to the user, including those at the franchise level. We have opened the toolbox to note that the user can also choose to upload their own image at this time (this function can be disabled at the system level if so desired by management). In addition, the images placed can be easily adjusted to fit into the template using the toolbox.

The last step for the front of the card: write and drop any copy onto the template. Multiple (unlimited) text is allowed. Here we have written our own copy, but there is also unlimited space for saved or franchise copy. If saved or prewritten copy is chosen, it also can be edited or changed to meet the specific message of this job. Once completed, the user drags the copy and places it anywhere on the card, using the toolbox to adjust the font type, color or size.

Next step moves to the back of the card. Directflex will work with franchise management to design a set number of templates that best fit their objectives and strategies. For instance, templates can be designed to include places for logos, portraits, images of varying size and number, or any other design elements specific to the organization.

Note in the upper right hand corner sits a thumbnail image of the front of the card. The user can now rotate from back to front to back with a single click, and can use this image to maintain a "consistency" of design.

Once a background color is chosen (or declined, as in this case), copy can be placed anywhere on the card that is within USPS regulations. The user does not need this knowledge though, as fleXengine automatically blocks these areas from allowing print or image placement.

Just like the front of the card, the user drags and drops images and/or graphics into the frames set on the template, then adjusts them using the toolbox options.

Last comes the placement of text on the back. The text library, top right, includes any pre-written copy provided by the franchise to drag and place anywhere on the card. Or the user can just as easily write their own. All of this flexibility is controlled at the corporate level.

Finally, the user can go back to any step at any time and review - and change if they desire - their work. Once they are completely satisfied with the result, they approve the work and move on to the list selection.

Now that the design is approved, fleXengine moves seamlessly to the targeting window; select a residential list, upload a proprietary list, or have Directflex send the cards directly to you.

The Directflex residential list can be sorted on a number of variables. One of the most effective is to choose the radius tool. Here, an address is entered as well as the distance in miles (measured in tenths - in this case .5 miles) from that address, to establish a geographic circle for targeting.

FleXengine then returns with the zip code areas that fit within the radius. Each zip code can now be sorted further by pressing the "edit" button.

By editing the 98103 zip in this example, we receive the five carrier routes, sorted by distance from the center of our radius, along with various data points defining these routes. By un-checking apartments and businesses, we are left with only houses for this particular mailing to be delivered.

FleXengine completes the job by once again showing the card (which can still be edited), as well as the areas and quantities to be delivered, and the total cost. All data can then be further reviewed and edited prior to approval.