Source: ClickZ

By Simms Jenkins

Whether you use an e-mail-focused agency, an e-mail service provider, or leverage in-house technology and services, it’s now time to make big plans for 2011. With big plans, come tough questions, and very few successful e-mail programs don’t have at least one key partner. That partner may be a data specialist, offer technology solutions, design and code e-mails, or offer full service e-mail marketing.

Chances are, most are not delivering everything you need. Some may be mostly absent except during billing time and others may be your eyes and ears in the e-mail minefield. However, they are working for you. So now is as good a time as any to probe deep and find out if this will be a lasting relationship.

Here are 17 questions that look back and ahead to ask your e-mail partner to maximize your relationship and ensure they are the right partner or solution for your unique needs.