Servers cost anywhere from nothing to thousands of dollars. Macintosh servers, on the other hand, are very easy to install but do not offer as broad an array of tools Section VI describes some of the available httpds in more detail. The interpreter and needed tools are freely available. Many sites offer free scripts that will process forms and mail the information to a single account or write it to a file. The online interface becomes a necessity for any site with members spanning global time zones.
Email then becomes the primary means of staying in touch.
A listserv or similar means for contacting people answering questions helps immensely. The MAD Scientist Network started as an in-house venture, but has developed into a global project drawing upon the expertise of scientists at institutions around the world. Participation requires a valid email address, access to the WWW and knowledge of some area of science. Scientists join by filling out an online sign-up form. This form asks for the person's name, email, institution, level of education, areas in which they would like to answer questions, and a brief description of their research interests.