Personalized Print + Data

Variable Data Printing That Turns “Mail” Into 1:1 Marketing

Variable data printing lets you personalize each printed piece with names, offers, images, URLs, and tracking elements—without slowing down production. If you’re running targeted direct mail, customer retention, or multi-touch campaigns, VDP is how you make print perform like digital.

What is Variable Data Printing?

Variable data printing (VDP) is a form of digital printing that changes text and graphics from piece to piece using a data file—each postcard or letter is uniquely tailored for the recipient.

Common VDP Personalization Options

Personalized names & messaging
Segment-specific copy and offers.
Targeted offers
Different promotions by audience type.
QR codes & tracking
Unique codes for attribution and follow-up.
PURLs
Personalized landing pages for higher conversions.

Why VDP Works

  • Higher response rates through personalization
  • Better attribution with QR + URL tracking
  • Faster testing with short-run digital printing
  • Stronger ROI than generic mail campaigns

Pair variable data direct mail with landing pages and follow-up emails to create a measurable pipeline channel.

FAQs

Variable Data Printing Questions, Answered

These FAQs cover the most common questions people ask when searching for variable data printing, personalized direct mail, and VDP marketing.

What is variable data printing (VDP)?

Variable data printing (VDP) is a type of digital printing that lets text, images, offers, and tracking elements change from one printed piece to the next using a data file. It’s commonly used for personalized direct mail, targeted postcards, and 1:1 marketing campaigns.

What can be personalized with variable data printing?

Most campaigns personalize names, company info, offers, images, product recommendations, and messaging by segment. You can also add unique QR codes, offer codes, and personalized URLs (PURLs) to track response and conversions.

Can VDP include unique QR codes and tracking?

Yes. Variable data direct mail often uses unique QR codes and trackable URLs so you can measure scans, site visits, form submissions, and other conversions—similar to digital campaign reporting.

Is variable data printing only for direct mail?

Not at all. VDP is used for postcards, letters, self-mailers, inserts, event invitations, loyalty campaigns, onboarding kits, and even transactional printing like statements and notices with targeted messaging.

How do I get my data ready for a VDP print campaign?

A clean spreadsheet (CSV) with consistent fields is usually enough. Many campaigns start with name, address, segment, and offer. We’ll help you validate fields, remove duplicates, and map your data to the design so the final output is accurate.

What’s the typical turnaround time for a VDP mailer?

Turnaround depends on format and quantity, but most variable data printing projects follow a simple flow: data prep → proofing → production → mailing. If the artwork is ready and the list is clean, campaigns can often move quickly.