Some of these offer functionality that may be difficult to replicate on the Net. However, increasingly all communication is beginning to converge into a platform that uses the Internet protocols. So far, we've discussed communication tools that are 'asynchronous' ' that is, the communication does not occur at the same time but at the convenience of the user. In addition, there is also 'real-time communication' in the form of chat and instant messaging. While just about everyone uses email, 'real-time ' discussion is very much a matter of personal choice.
Some people love it and feel at home in the sometimes-chaotic discussion.
Others really, really hate it and find it a complete waste of time. While it is not the tool of choice for community practitioners, applying some guidelines can make it useful in some circumstances. It can be good way to build a bond with others while you are online. Learn more Webcom has a simple introduction to Mailing Lists . OneNorthwest has some Netiquette Guidelines for participating in an Email List .