Can we Build a Better Zip Model?
Lately I have had a keen interest in demographic data and how it best fits with the tools we have and goals we seek in fundraising analytics. Certainly a plethora of affinity metrics and giving behavior makes our statistical mouths “water,” but demographic data still presents relevance and unique relationships (some good and some bad) when attempting to predict giving behavior.
I have recently posted articles suggesting another long look at demographic data (Why Demographic Data Just Won’t Die) and its benefits (Predictive Modeling the 2008 Elections…) in capturing difficult or complex decisions or choices. This article suggests some of the limitations of a zip model. While many of you may not use them regularly, I think zip-driven models may have utility for annual giving segmentation and mailings, and for institutions that rely heavily on a broad base of public and community support (urban public universities for example).
This article discusses some of the largest issues with zip-focused modeling, including aggregation, and the “self-fulfilling prophecy” phenomenon. It also offers some general but effective advice for anyone considering a zip model as an additional analytical tool.
How to Build a Better Zip Model
The May 2007 postal rate increase sent every direct retailer scrambling. It’s hard to argue the hike’s effectiveness as a catalyst for renewed analytical vigor.
Our clients have been analyzing everything from the impact of page count reductions and co-mailing programs to the most appropriate tools to optimize circulation. And for one, preliminary research indicated that a new zip model might be the right solution at the right time.
Zip modeling is not new. It remains a data-based tool that requires in-the-mail validation, but the postal rate increase was as good a time as any for many retailers to test it.
I have recently posted articles suggesting another long look at demographic data (Why Demographic Data Just Won’t Die) and its benefits (Predictive Modeling the 2008 Elections…) in capturing difficult or complex decisions or choices. This article suggests some of the limitations of a zip model. While many of you may not use them regularly, I think zip-driven models may have utility for annual giving segmentation and mailings, and for institutions that rely heavily on a broad base of public and community support (urban public universities for example).
This article discusses some of the largest issues with zip-focused modeling, including aggregation, and the “self-fulfilling prophecy” phenomenon. It also offers some general but effective advice for anyone considering a zip model as an additional analytical tool.
How to Build a Better Zip Model
The May 2007 postal rate increase sent every direct retailer scrambling. It’s hard to argue the hike’s effectiveness as a catalyst for renewed analytical vigor.
Our clients have been analyzing everything from the impact of page count reductions and co-mailing programs to the most appropriate tools to optimize circulation. And for one, preliminary research indicated that a new zip model might be the right solution at the right time.
Zip modeling is not new. It remains a data-based tool that requires in-the-mail validation, but the postal rate increase was as good a time as any for many retailers to test it.
Labels: Analytics concepts
posted by Alexander Oftelie at
3/31/2008
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