Recommendation for Group - Google, Yahoo, ???

[IronMac]

Hi all, I am considering setting up an online group dedicated to a particular activity. At the very least, I need a sign-up function for people to join the group, a forum where members can post messages and I need to be able to receive and send out emails to members.

Can anyone suggest a solution? Thanks.

[voodoopenguin]

I own or help run many Yahoo groups and have done for years. I'm very happy with them.

[Stephanie]

I echo what voodoopenguin said. I own or help run quite a few lists (and have for about a decade - since they were egroups). They're pretty well established & lots of nice features.

[macnut]

I've used Yahoogroups since it was egroups and have always had good service. Groups are simple to manage and the features like photos and files, as well as message archive, are also handy. I have not tried Google groups.

[Paul F.]

I must be the only one that really HATES yahoo groups...

Hate the layout. Hate the message format. Hate the lack of customizability...

I have not tried google groups, but would try them first over Yahoo Groups.

The only thing Yahoo has going for it is simplicity, and the fact that there are LOTS of them and people are familiar with them.

[vicrock]

Another vote for yahoogroups - I'm owner or moderator on about 15 and member on probably 20 more.

You have to go in and really set your preferences to get rid of the "bells and whistles" - but once done it is seamless

[IronMac]

Ok, it looks like Yahoogroups it is then. Thanks everyone for your input.

[graylocks]

make sure you set up your group so that you approve every member. this prevents spammers from joining. another option is to let anyone join but moderate initial postings; after they've proven themselves to be posting legitimate stuff, you can unmoderate that member.

[IronMac]

Thanks graylocks...good points. I'm thinking of setting up a group that may be controversial...it's going to be a "Critical Manners" group in response to the Critical Mass group in my city.

[Black Landlord]

Is there already an "official" Critical Mass list of some sort for your city?
Why not try to work from within?