a first-time use of a mailing list to determine how well the list performs. Tests are typically done in small, but statistically significant, batches to mitigate risk. After a successful test, the mailer will typically follow with a continuation order, which is a much larger order from the same list. If the test fails, then the mailer generally does not order that list again for the same purpose. An inconclusive test may call for a re-test with a slightly larger quantity.