Founded in 1917, the Direct Marketing Association represents more than 3,400 companies in over 45 countries. It is a global trade association of business and nonprofit organizations. The association provides research, education and networking opportunities to improve results throughout the end-to-end direct marketing process, as well as advocates standards for responsible marketing. The Direct Marketing Association manages an education services department that offers nearly 15 seminars in the United States. The association also operates a research department that conducts and publishes member and industry studies annually. It has approximately 20 special interest councils. In addition, the Direct Marketing Association manages a global knowledge network center.