Implementing Proximity Searches

Proximity Searching enables the search for contacts within a specified "Radius in Miles" from a central zip/postal code. This feature enhances targeted contact management by allowing users to focus on geographical areas of interest.

Steps to Enable Proximity Searching for Callers

  1. Access Admin Settings: From the Admin homepage, select the desired Project.
  2. Navigate to Page Layout: Open the Page Layout menu and select the Search Fields section.
  3. Enable Radius Search: Check the box next to Radius from Zip/Postal Code to enable this search feature for callers.
  4. Save Changes: Confirm your settings by clicking Save.

Using Proximity Searching

  • To use proximity searching, enter the zip/postal code and the desired radius in miles in the Radius in Miles field.
  • Launch the search to return all contacts within the specified radius.
  • This feature can be used in conjunction with other search fields to refine results further.

Additional Notes

  • Availability: This feature is only available in projects set on the Dialing Country of the US/Canada.
  • Accuracy and Updates: Proximity searching accuracy varies as some zip codes cover larger areas. The zip code database is updated quarterly to maintain accuracy.
  • Zip Code Specifics:
    • In the US, searches should use the 5-digit zip code only. The +4 digit extension, if present, is ignored.
    • In Canada, postal codes can be entered with or without spaces (e.g., A9A 9A9 or A9A9A9).
  • Zip Code Changes: Hundreds of zip codes change annually in the US. For the most accurate and definitive zip code information, refer to the USPS Zip Code Lookup Tool.

By enabling and utilizing the Proximity Searching feature, VanillaSoft users can more effectively manage and engage with contacts based on geographical data, improving the efficiency of outreach strategies tailored to specific areas.

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