MailChimp user synchronization

MailChimp user synchronization integration

The integration allows you to automatically add affiliates to your MailChimp mailing lists. It also keeps both applications up to date – if there is an email change, the other application is notified and updates records as well.

NOTE: This plugin does not create affiliates in Post Affiliate Pro (Network) based on the user details in your MailChimp mailing lists.

How to integrate PostAffiliatePro with MailChimp user synchronization

Activate the plugin

The first step is to activate the plugin in merchant panel and then to configure it. In your merchant panel navigate to Configuration > Plugins > MailChimp user synchronization v3 > Activate. There is a hint for each configuration field so you should have no problem to set it up.

Webhooks integration

Webhooks are essential for communication from MailChimp to Post Affiliate Pro – Post Affiliate Pro will be informed about subscriber detail changes.

To setup a correct webhook please navigate to each list/audience (View button) you want to integrate and then to it’s settings/tools and into Webhooks section. There is a field for webhook URL – you have to enter the plugin URL:

https://URL_TO_PostAffiliatePro/plugins/MailChimpV3/mailchimp.php

Right after the URL, please add this text with your security key (any):

?secretKey=XXXXXXXXXXX, where XXXXXXXXXXX represents your security code.

The result URL should look like this:

https://URL_TO_PostAffiliatePro/plugins/MailChimpV3/mailchimp.php?secretKey=XXXXXXXXXXX

The same security code goes to plugin configuration.

How does the plugin work exactly?

By default, if no additional option is turned on in the plugin (so no checkbox is checked), then it ensures that a one-way synchronization is used:

• if a user (present in both applications) is edited in MailChimp then the modification takes effect also in Post Affiliate Pro / Network (PAP/PAN)

If you check in the ‘add new affiliate‘ option, then the new affiliates will be added to your MailChimp mailing list AND a two-way synchronization is used as well:

• if a user (present in both applications) is edited in PAP/PAN then the modification takes effect also in MailChimp
• if a user (present in both applications) is edited in MailChimp then the modification takes effect also in PAP/PAN

What is MailChimp?

MailChimp is a comprehensive marketing, automation, and email platform designed to help businesses effectively manage their marketing campaigns. It offers a suite of tools for email automation, content creation, audience segmentation, and performance analytics. With integrations to popular apps like Facebook, Zapier, Google Analytics, and Shopify, MailChimp streamlines marketing efforts and supports GDPR compliance. It also features generative AI tools for creating brand-specific content and provides onboarding support for new users. Trusted by over 11 million users worldwide, MailChimp is a leading choice for businesses aiming to enhance their marketing strategies.

MailChimp was founded in 2001 by Ben Chestnut and Mark Armstrong, initially operating as a paid service. In 2009, it introduced a freemium model, significantly expanding its user base. By 2014, MailChimp was sending over 10 billion emails monthly. The company acquired LemonStand in 2019 and transitioned into a full marketing platform. In 2020, it expanded internationally by acquiring Courier Media. Known for its bootstrapped growth, MailChimp was purchased by Intuit in 2021 for approximately $12 billion. A brand redesign in 2018 reflected its expanded services and commitment to innovative marketing solutions.

MailChimp specifically targets small and midsize businesses that lack tools for personalizing their marketing efforts. By enabling businesses to segment and understand their customers better, MailChimp ensures communications are tailored to individual needs. This personalization fosters customer loyalty and growth, making clients feel valued rather than just another number.

Main Features of MailChimp

• Customized Reports and Historical Data: Access detailed reports and historical data, available to Standard plans and above.
• Behavioral Targeting and Advanced Reporting: Create personalized campaigns for Shopify users with behavioral targeting.
• Personalization via Typeform and Social Posting: Utilize interactive surveys and manage social media accounts directly through MailChimp.
• Landing Page Remarketing and AI Email Generator: Re-engage visitors with targeted ads and generate emails using AI.
• Comprehensive Marketing Tools and Extensive Integrations: Benefit from over 300 integrations with apps like Facebook and Shopify for a seamless marketing experience.

MailChimp Pricing Options

• Free Plan: $0 per month, includes 500 contacts and up to 1,000 emails per month.
• Essentials Plan: Starting at $13 per month, includes A/B testing and access to email and chat support.
• Standard Plan: Starting at $20 per month, offers advanced insights and 24/7 support.
• Premium Plan: Starting at $350 per month, features unlimited audiences and multivariate testing.

MailChimp also offers additional options like nonprofit discounts and a Pay-As-You-Go plan to accommodate different business needs.

Key User Insights on MailChimp

Pros:

• Powerful template editor for creating professional emails.
• Comprehensive reporting features for detailed analytics.
• Expansive integration capabilities with various apps and platforms.
• Improved email deliverability rates.

Cons:

• Higher pricing tiers can be costly for small businesses.
• Counts unsubscribed contacts towards the total contact limit.
• Reduced features in the free plan compared to previous offerings.
• Navigation can be complex for new users.

Overall, MailChimp is well-received for its user-friendly design and robust feature set, although its pricing may be a consideration for some users.

MailChimp YouTube Reviews

1. MailChimp 2023 Review: Is It Still The Best Email Marketing Tool?
   An in-depth review discussing MailChimp’s features, pricing, and effectiveness.

2. MailChimp Review: Pros & Cons (2023)
   Outlines the advantages and disadvantages of using MailChimp for marketing purposes.

3. MailChimp Tutorial for Beginners 2023 (Step by Step)
   A comprehensive tutorial on effectively using MailChimp, covering basic functionalities.

Alternatives to MailChimp

If MailChimp doesn’t perfectly suit your needs, there are several alternatives to consider:

1. Zoho Campaigns
2. MailerLite
3. Drip
4. Campaigner
5. GetResponse
6. Moosend
7. Brevo (formerly Sendinblue)
8. ActiveCampaign
9. Constant Contact
10. HubSpot