Just as @Josh Caldwell stated:Dont over think it, copy success.Keep it simple @Keith Belzner or if you're really interested in seeing the outcome, do a small batch and test your results.

As I am nearing pulling the trigger on my first direct mail marketing campaign, I am spending the rest of this week absorbing as much knowledge from blogs/forum threads on the subject before I build my list and send out the first batch.

I suppose I'm getting ahead of myself seeing as I haven't even sent out my first batch of yellow letters yet, but will be sending out probably around 200 this week, which I know isn't a whole lot - but it's a start.

THe first batch wore me out.    

I am sending them every 4 weeks.Campaign 1 - Postcards: On my 2nd batch. 

Contract was for $32, I believe, assigned it for a decent profit.I've since sent out a batch of yellow text post cards (batch #2), with a dismal response rate, 3 calls total.I have a color post card that went out over the last few days (batch 3).

I get probably 5 to 10 yellow letter type solicitations a month from the 11 states I work in.. and usually in batch's so I think maybe a guru went through the market within 30 days..

I sent a batch of 150 yellow letters out at the end of October (mailed on October 31, thanks again @Michael Quarles for the hookup) to probate personal representatives, and got my first call back!

You will have to scan a new image when you start a new batch.

His response was funny.The old batch and blast technique and see what sticks isn't how I do things in my day job.