Interactivity, communication and community-building are among the strong points of the Internet. As email becomes ubiquitous, it brings with us opportunities to enhance communications and market your organization’s programs, services and products at little or no cost.

Email Newsletters are emails (in text or, increasingly, HTML format) sent to a mailing list of customers, consumers, families, supporters, etc. These mailings literally cost nothing, and give updates on whatever information you want to communicate - program updates, special events, or calls to action on timely issues. With links to information on your website, these can keep your constituents informed and involved, and keep your organization in the limelight. It is also an effective tool to gain publicity and reach out to the media.

Discussion Lists provide interactivity and help build community. Participants post questions or comments which are then immediately forwarded to all the others. There are existing lists for many interest areas, with more being added every day. These can be used to provide information, support and resources for staff and consumers. Participating in relevant existing lists can both serve as a resource and also an opportunity to spread the word about your agency’s programs, and even attract staff to your cutting-edge agency! The same is true of newsgroup participation.  Message Boards also provide opportunities for visitors to share information on your website.

Contact Web Strategies today to put these ideas into action!

There are a variety of free and inexpensive services that can help with establishing your own discussion list or find relevant ones to join. Check out some of these resources: