Magazine Summary
NORSK UFO-NYTT
Summary
This issue features a letter from the editor, dated June 21, 1984, apologizing for a shorter than usual 'clip round' due to a leg injury. The editor mentions receiving telephone reports of recent UFO activity in Østfold and other areas. A significant portion of the letter addresses issues with subscriptions and magazine distribution caused by strikes, noting that a large backlog of names needs to be processed. The editor also discusses the effectiveness of mailings with payment forms for subscriptions, with a high conversion rate. A detail about a 'June 1st' order deadline on a catalog is clarified due to the strike's impact. The editor also questions the practice of sending out old magazine issues to potential subscribers, deeming them unrepresentative.
Magazine Overview
Title: NORSK UFO-NYTT
Issue Date: June 21, 1984
Type: Magazine Issue
Editorial Letter
The issue begins with a personal note from the editor, dated June 21, 1984, apologizing for a reduced content of 'clips' due to a leg injury that limits his ability to sit or stand for extended periods. He expresses hope for improvement in the following week. The editor mentions receiving several telephone calls indicating recent UFO activity in Østfold and other areas, with a promise of more details in the next issue.
Subscription and Distribution Challenges
A significant portion of the letter addresses the impact of ongoing strikes on the magazine's operations. The editor recounts a call from Brosjyresentralen regarding a shortage of magazines and a large influx of names to process. He notes that the main batch of subscribers expected in April and May has been delayed. The next list of over 2000 names is due by Saturday or Monday.
Regarding the response rate to subscription drives, the editor notes that people tend to take their time, but the largest group of subscribers is expected through follow-up efforts. He highlights that 70-80% of new subscribers are acquired after receiving a mailing that includes a payment form.
An important detail concerning a catalog's order deadline of June 1st is clarified. Catalogs printed before the strike have this date stamped, while those printed after have only 'June' printed. This has led to some customers receiving the catalog after the deadline and pointing out the delay. However, due to the strikes, no deadlines are being strictly enforced this year.
The editor expresses relief that he is not running a travel agency, given the significant delays experienced by Brosjyresentralen. He also mentions a letter from a reader named Finn K. concerning a returned 1982-vintage magazine issue sent to Bergen. The editor questions the practice of sending out such old issues, suggesting they are not representative and should be withheld.
The editor concludes by promising to return with more content the following week.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
This issue's content, primarily an editorial letter, focuses on the practical challenges of running a UFO publication, including the impact of external events like strikes on distribution and subscription processes. The editor's tone is personal and informative, addressing reader concerns and operational difficulties. There's an underlying theme of resilience and a commitment to continuing the publication despite setbacks. The editorial stance appears to be one of transparency and direct communication with the readership regarding the magazine's operational status and challenges.
Jeg er glad vi ikke driver reisebyrå, for tenk hva de taper på disse forsinkelsene. Han i Brosjyresentralen torde ikke tenke på det engang.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main reason for the editor's current difficulties?
The editor is experiencing difficulties sitting and writing due to a leg injury, which has resulted in a shorter than usual 'clip round'.
What has affected the magazine's subscription and distribution process?
Strikes have significantly impacted the process, causing a backlog of names and delays in sending out magazines and catalogs.
How effective are mailings with payment forms for subscriptions?
They are highly effective, with 70-80% of new subscribers acquired after receiving a letter with a payment form.
Why does the editor question sending out old magazine issues?
The editor believes old issues are not representative and should not be sent to potential subscribers as they might not be effective in gaining new subscriptions.
In This Issue
People Mentioned
- Finn K.reader
Organisations
- Brosjyresentralen
Locations
- Østfold, Norway
- Oslo, Norway
- Bergen, Norway