Postal Letter

I don't understand the difference between non-digest and digest mailing lists?

I have a website for a record label, so I am using the "Mailman" program to set up a mailing list. It asks if I want my list members to be able to choose whether they want to receive emails immediately or in a batched digest, yes or no? If I choose no, it will default to batched digest. If I say yes, my list members will have to choose between the two, and I'm sure most people have no idea what the difference is. Why can't the default be non-digest? All I want is to send out the occasional email to tell the list members about a new album, and be able to receive replies from list members that everyone on the list (including myself) can read and re-reply if necessary.

Public Comments

1. It sounds as if the mail program you're using is built more for a blogging-style atmosphere than just a typical occasional email blast. Basically, digest form lets you get all updates in one email. Non-digest format sends each update out as it comes in. For instance, if you had a blog and this was set up, non-digest could, for example, send emails each time a comment is put in (which may completely spam peoples' inboxes). Digest format would send all of them out in one email for a day/week/etc., however it's set up. I hope this makes sense.