Pricing and Classification followed up the unprecedented rate case settlement for Omnibus Rate Case Docket 2001-1 with the most successful ever implementation of those rates. In addition, it was instrumental in the introduction of several pricing and service innovations to help the Postal Service reduce handling costs for customers and add value to their service.


1. OMNIBUS RATE CASE R2001-1
A comprehensive plan was developed to support the implementation of the new rates and fees. The plan focused on communications, cross-functional teamwork, and training to ensure that the Postal Service and its customers were ready for the changes to rates, fees, and classifications. The plan included the involvement of postal and customer implementation readiness teams (IRTs) and an implementation advisory board (IAB) comprised of 15 postal members ranging from postmasters in rural communities to a district manager. The IRTs and IAB helped to identify internal and external impacts and provided solutions that would ensure all parties were prepared for the June 30 implementation. Implementation and communication with Postal Service employees and customers were accomplished through the extensive use of internally developed implementation packages, kits, posters, Postal Service Television Network (PSTN) broadcasts, conferences, postal publications, and Internet technology. In addition, the department provided training for and coordinated efforts of the Technical Speakers Bureau. These speakers made presentations at more than 200 internal and external events, including Postal Customer Council meetings and the National Postal Forums.