These figures are presented in a new JupiterResearch report, “ US E-mail Marketing Forecast, 2007 to 2012. ” The report also addresses the future of spam, finding that while spam volumes will continue to rise, the volume of spam messages reaching consumers will remain flat over the next few years as a consequence of continued efforts by Internet service providers (ISPs) to battle senders and use progressive tactics to block billions of messages daily.

“E-mail service providers have done a solid job of standardizing feedback loops with Internet service providers and are continuing to make needed improvements in e-mail delivery, ” said David Daniels, Vice President and Research Director at JupiterResearch. “This will create better opportunities for e-mail marketing, although marketers will have to work harder to remain relevant in their communications with their intended audiences. ”

Embracing targeted e-mail tactics, marketers will increasingly rely on enhanced e-mail application features and strategic services, benefiting full-service agencies and self-service technology providers alike. JupiterResearch will be releasing its e-mail service provider (ESP) buyer's guide in the next 30 days. The report evaluates and rates the major vendors in this space.

“The solid growth in spending on e-mail marketing is a testament to the effectiveness of the channel, ” said David Schatsky, President of JupiterResearch. “But the e-mail marketing landscape continues to evolve and marketers have to stay current with best practices to continue getting a good return on their investment. ”