What is a listserv?
This document provides basic information about listservs. Other documents in the listserv series build on this information. Listservs also are referred to as e-mail lists, e-mail discussion groups or electronic discussion groups. All of these terms refer to group discussions administered via e-mail. Definitions Administrator: A person assigned by the listserv host to handle the technical issues and problems related to the listserv, such as deleting and adding members and archiving conversations. Host: The individual or agency who manages and is responsible for the listserv. Listserv: A mailing list of e-mail addresses of people interested in a certain subject. When a message is posted to a listserv, it is automatically sent to the e-mail address of everyone who has subscribed to that list. Post: The act of sending a message to the e-mail address of everyone subscribed to the listserv. Subscribe: The act of joining a listserv. Unsubscribe: The act of leaving a listserv. Purpose Listserv
What is commonly referred to as a ‘listserv’ is actually a mailing list run by the LISTSERV software (see terminology note below). A LISTSERV list functions just like a distribution list you might set up in your mail software, but it is stored on a central server and provides more features and greater control. For example, people can join a list (subscribe) and leave the list (unsubscribe). The list owner may control who is allowed to send messages to the list, or who is allowed to view the subscriber list. List messages may be archived on the server for later retrieval. Such lists make handling large numbers of addresses much easier than it would be if a list were maintained in a person’s e-mail program. Mailing lists are usually used as a vehicle for member discussion of a particular topic, but can also be used to broadcast announcements to a large group. While LISTSERV is the name of the software we happen to use, it’s only one of many mailing list management software applications a
The term “listserv” is usually used as a synonym for “mailing list” although it is actually the software that allows a computer to create and manage mailing lists. LISTSERV® is actually a registered trademark licensed to L-Soft International, Inc. and is the mailing list software in use at the University.
A. A listserv is the list of people Washington Technology Industry Association emails program information to. You can sign up to receive interest-based emails online – login to your profile on the Washington Technology Industry Association site and click “edit my listservs.” Q. I have purchased a ticket to an event and now want to add guests. However, the system won’t let me purchase additional tickets. A. If you have any questions about online registration, please call 206-448-3033 x107.
