The Motive Web Design Glossary
mailing list, Listserv®
mailing list
A mailing list allows for distribution of information to subscribers via email.
There are two standard options for mailing lists:
- An Announce mailing list allows an administrator to send an email to subscribers. The subscription process is often automated with the user completing a form to sign-up for the service.
- A Discussion mailing list allows a group of users to exchange ideas by way of a single email contact point. Any message sent to the group email address is automatically resent to all users on the mailing list.
Listserv
Mailing lists are often referred to as listservs, however Listserv® is a specific program.
Listserv® was developed by Eric Thomas in 1986 for BITNET: a research network predating the internet. Designed to automate the processes involved in maintaining mailing lists, it is the model upon which contemporary mailing lists are based.
Reference links
- The Mailing List Gurus
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Approaches to email based communication, mailing list management tips and programs
Glossary A-Z