What is EMPS and how does it relate to opt-out lists and email marketing?
Summary
What email marketers say12Marketer opinions
Marketer from Email Geeks shares that the only "opt out" list they know of with some relevance is the rtr list in Austria but that's only relevant if the marketer doesn't have consent in the first place.
Marketer from Email Geeks explains that eMPS is the *Email Preference Service* and allows you to remove your email from United States-based lists and provides a link to a faq page: <https://www.ims-dm.com/cgi/offemaillist.php>
Email marketer from Reddit comments that while specific opt-out lists like eMPS might have diminished in relevance, respecting all unsubscribe requests and maintaining a clean list is paramount. They emphasize that deliverability hinges on sending to engaged recipients.
Email marketer from EmailVendorSelection.com shares that compliance with opt-out requests, whether through eMPS or other mechanisms, is crucial for maintaining sender reputation and avoiding legal penalties. Ignoring opt-out requests can lead to being blacklisted and facing fines.
Email marketer from an email marketing forum discusses the importance of using suppression lists, which contain email addresses of people who have opted out. While they don't explicitly mention eMPS, they highlight the need to remove these contacts from your mailing list to avoid legal issues and maintain a good sender reputation.
Marketer from Email Geeks responds that people who have unsubscribed have given some sign of life which makes them even more valuable for blanket lists sold to cold emailers.
Email marketer from Litmus highlights the significance of list segmentation and targeting engaged subscribers. They emphasize that sending relevant content to the right audience is crucial for improving email performance and avoiding spam complaints, which aligns with the goal of respecting recipient preferences as facilitated by services like eMPS.
Email marketer from OptinMonster stresses the need for explicit consent and double opt-in for email marketing. This approach ensures that subscribers genuinely want to receive your emails and helps maintain a high-quality email list. While not mentioning eMPS, it showcases the broader focus on subscriber choice and email permissions.
Email marketer from IMS-DM.com explains that eMPS, or Email Preference Service, allows consumers to remove their email address from United States-based direct marketing email lists. It is a service managed by the Data & Marketing Association (DMA) to help consumers manage their privacy preferences.
Email marketer from Mailjet explains that maintaining a clean email list by removing unsubscribed or inactive contacts helps improve deliverability rates. This includes respecting opt-out requests and using tools or services to manage email preferences, indirectly relating to the function of eMPS.
Email marketer from Sendinblue highlights the importance of opt-in email marketing and honoring unsubscribe requests. While not directly mentioning eMPS, it emphasizes that respecting recipient preferences is essential for building trust and improving email deliverability.
Marketer from Email Geeks shares that eMPS is the DMA's version of the global opt-out list and access to the eMPS would be through the Direct Marketing Association.
What the experts say2Expert opinions
Expert from Spam Resource responds to the risk of list bombing and the importance of proper subscription and unsubscription handling. While they don't directly mention EMPS, the expert highlights how critical it is to process all opt-out requests correctly and promptly to prevent potential abuse and maintain a clean mailing list, which aligns with the goals of EMPS in honoring consumer email preferences.
Expert from Word to the Wise explains that one myth is that simply having an unsubscribe link guarantees compliance. While providing an opt-out is essential, services like eMPS, although dated, highlight the importance of respecting preferences across various lists and platforms, ensuring full compliance with regulations.
What the documentation says5Technical articles
Documentation from the DMA outlines principles of responsible marketing, including respecting consumer privacy and providing choices regarding data collection and usage. eMPS aligns with these principles by offering consumers a centralized way to manage their email preferences.
Documentation from DMA Choice clarifies that preference services like email opt-out lists help consumers reduce unwanted marketing solicitations. While DMA Choice focuses on postal mail, the principle extends to email preference services like eMPS.
Documentation from GDPR explains that individuals have the right to object to the processing of their personal data for direct marketing purposes. Although GDPR is a European regulation, it underscores the global importance of honoring opt-out requests and providing consumers with control over their data.
Documentation from NIST outlines guidelines for digital identity management, including the importance of user control and privacy. eMPS and similar opt-out mechanisms support these guidelines by empowering users to manage their email preferences and protect their privacy.
Documentation from FTC.gov explains the CAN-SPAM Act requirements, including providing a clear and conspicuous opt-out mechanism and honoring opt-out requests promptly. While not specifically referencing eMPS, it outlines the legal obligations related to email marketing and consumer choice.