An email list server is a very useful tool for communication and marketing. It allows you to manage a list of contact email addresses and send an email message to all addresses at once. Use a computer list server to inform your employees and market to current or potential customers.

List servers vary in type and price. Some are free, and others provide added features that take you well beyond the automated sending of an email message. Even if your internal email goes over a company network, list server software can help send external mail to existing and future customers. The basic categories of list server products are:

1. List server websites that provide the service directly on their website.

2. List server software you can install on your web server or network.

3. Email marketing tools that help with design, content and email marketing functions.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Set up and use an online web-based mailing list server

To sign up, visit the website and register; then set up a new list. Send emails to the list's members right from your email client or visit the website to send messages. A benefit of this type of email list server is that your list members manage their own accounts by inputting address changes or updating their subscription options.

I recommend: A-List Hosting provides various price levels and services, from announcement-only list servers to fully interactive discussion hosting. Google Groups provides free email lists with extra features such as a group web space.

Buy list server software for added features

Consider purchasing a specialized network list server to automate your email list management. This type of software gives extra control over your company email lists.

I recommend: L-Soft's LISTSERV software application offers many features including email virus screening. OminstarMailer offers a free demonstration to address email based marketing, among other features.

Buy a computer list server with email marketing functions for electronic marketing

Encourage visitors to return to your website by giving them the option of signing up for an email newsletter. Send an attractive and informative letter on a regular basis to existing and potential customers about sales or new products available. Email marketing software helps write and design an effective marketing communication, in addition to helping you mail it.

I recommend: Choose products from Lyris, Inc., iContact or Listbox for email marketing applications.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Various options exist in most list servers. Opt to have a list that sends messages to your list members. Create a list that allows members to post a message to the group or group discussion.
• •  Your web host may offer free list server options along with your website and email products. This set up is useful as a quick way to keep employees informed and for various departments to set up email lists. The option may not fulfill all the needs offered by full-functioned list server products.