MusicGuide, Inc. Consulting and Design for the Music Industry on the World Wide Web

What is an Email Listserver?

An email listserver is software than administers automated email lists. These lists can be used for a variety of purposes. Many listservers handle ongoing discussion groups on particular topics. People who subscribe to a discussion list can then join the discussion by sending email ("posting to the list") responding to what others have written, or asking a question. Everyone subscribing to the list receives all the mail that's sent to the list. Some such lists offer a "digest" option in which all the mail is compiled into one document, usually daily. Another use of a listserver is to send emails about special events or news of interest to the subscribers. This type of list may or may not allow all subscribers to post announcements. Some lists are heavily moderated, that is, whoever runs the list exercises editorial control over what gets posted. Other lists are somewhat moderated or totally unmoderated.

What's the difference between an Email Listserver and Junk Email?

Junk email, or "Spam," is unsolicited email that is usually intended to sell something. A listserver can be used (abused) in this way, however, sending unsolicited commercial email is already illegal in several states (including Washington) and is frowned all over the internet. A properly administered listserver sends mail only to people who have subscribed to a list, and allows people to unsubscribe at any time.

How can I set my own Email List?

Two ways. Set up your own 24x7 highspeed internet connection with dedicated computers to run the listserver software, or have someone host your list on an existing server. MusicGuide runs email lists for the music industry in the Pacific Northwest. Email us if you're interested.