Choosing A List Service Provider Part IV by Michael Funk Support is probably an overlooked part of owning a list and choosing a provider. The most important factors here are how much experience you have as a list owner, weighed against the technical support available at the service provider you choose. If you underestimate the amount of support you need or go with a provider with little or no support to save a buck, you could be costing yourself subscribers and money. The first thing to check into is the provider's list interface.
Some providers offer easy to use interfaces that even a novice can use with no problem.
In these cases, support probably is not an issue. Other service providers have software and interfaces that require a least a working knowledge of list management software, sometimes specific list-management software. Good service providers will offer support for all aspects of list- hosting, not just on the technical end. Some will help you with advertising, marketing tips, etc. Ask around, join some discussion lists made up of list owners and see what people have to say about certain providers.