E-Holiday Cards vs. Traditional Holiday Cards: Which is Superior?, News In Progress

The holiday season is upon us: a time for giving and getting gifts, being holly and jolly, and getting inundated with writing cards. Businesses have gone digital with writing and sending holiday cards through the practice of eCards. eCards, as the name suggests, are online versions of greeting cards that get sent directly through the recipient’s email inbox. Traditional cards are typically written by hand and sent through the postal service. Here are a few other key differences between Traditional and eCards and how they’ll tailor to one’s needs and holiday desires:

eCards are more reliable: The online world is very efficient and sending eCards will ensure the recipient receives their card on time without even leaving the house. Traditional cards involve writing the message out manually, placing the envelope in the mailbox, and hoping the person receives it on time. According to the United States Postal Service (USPS), over 8.05 billion letters are sent every holiday season and the possibility of being late is quite likely. eCards are more direct and delivered with a click of the mouse eliminating the fear of the letter arriving late.

Traditional Cards are More Personal: According to a survey by Rajapack UK, about 65% of people believed that “handwritten communication feels more personal, more considered, and more permanent”. This may be because seeing a message sent through email lacks the personal touch and handwriting of written cards. Regardless, many people feel more valued through handwritten cards which can make a huge difference when trying to impress the recipient and their attitude towards the sender.

eCards are quicker: For people looking for a way to finish their holiday cards without spending as much time and thought, eCards are the way to go, especially if writing cards for a large family and/or company. Rather than writing out individual cards, eCards give the option of copying and distributing multiple cards at a time. Even if using a copy machine for traditional cards, they still need to be branded, signed, and proofed. eCards removes this hassle which may be why, according to the Business website Tapni, over half are businesses have switched to ecards to increase productivity.

eCards are More Environmentally Friendly: With the holidays, it is easy to forget people’s responsibility to reduce their carbon footprint, however, using eCards is a great way to do so. Traditional cards require paper made from trees to write the cards as well as carbon fuel used by the mail trucks to send them out. As such, eCards are an ecologically friendly alternative that still conveys the same holiday message to the recipient.

Traditional Cards Have Higher Keepsake Value: Many people like to keep tangible cards as a memento for themselves. This act makes traditional cards all the more personal and thoughtful. eCards can be easily dismissed, especially when piled above other emails and spam mail. It is also easier to delete and makes the effort less meaningful.

Depending on which method of transporting holiday cards is superior depends on the sender’s intent. For those looking for an environmentally sound, efficient method of making cards and are willing to sacrifice that personalized touch of tangible cards, eCards are the way to go. However, for those looking to make the recipient feel more special (which is always crucial during the holidays) and who are willing to put in a bit more time, it is best to send traditional cards. And for those looking to feel less overwhelmed during the holiday season, remember that it’s the season to feel jolly and replicate that joyous feeling toward others. Happy holidays!