Web Based Hosting

[Terry K.]

Our small group has grown from four people to over 20 people. It is getting harder to maintain the address list and keep everyone informed about the next gathering. One of the members suggested putting our information on a web based host site. It would be great if we could share our addresses, recipes and photos of our projects in addition to a news and notes section. People could check in with the site and receive the information that they needed.
Do any of you belong to a group or organization besides TQS that uses the internet as a way to connect with its members?
Do you pay a fee?
What do you like/dislike?
How hard is it to maintain the information?
Thanks for your comments!

[Deborah W.]

You could set up a ning network. I don't think it is expensive and you could keep it private just for your small group. Check it out at ning.com. Another possibility is setting up a private group on Facebook. Our extended family has one so we can all keep in touch.

[Hannelore N.]

I have always liked Yahoo groups. They can be set up in such a way that they are totally private and not listed anywhere. You can post special messages to members, have a photo gallery, a links section and a place for files, like recipes. It's easy to navigate, even for those who are not very computer-savvy. It doesn't cost anything. Give it a try. You can always close it down if you don't like it.

[Hannelore N.]

Terry, I'm with Lorchen on the Yahoo Groups. I'm not sure what's involved with starting one, but it can't be that hard. Our quilt guild has a Yahoo Group and it has worked out great.

[Hannelore N.]

I knew very little when I set up the first Yahoo group. Took me about half an hour, and then a little 'tweaking' now and then.

[Terry K.]

Great thoughts. . .I'm leaning toward Yahoo groups. . .don't know about setting up an address list; but if the small group decides to try yahoo, I'll give it a shot! Thank you for posting your comments!

[Hannelore N.]

Terry, you don't need to set up an address list. Every member of your Yahoo group will be listed. Members have a choice of how they want to be involved/contacted (every new message sent to their email address, for example). I always insist that everybody at least selects the 'special notices only' option. It means that I can type up a message or newsletter, then pick 'special notice' and it gets send to every member of the group. Works for me.

[Terry K.]

Special notices only option. . .I'll have to check that out. Great idea, Lorchen! Thanks. I did start a yahoo group and some people have been challenged to sign in. . .not sure why; but am working with them, although I'm not experienced with tech support! I did make a database for a contact list as we meet in each other's homes and need to know the address to get there and the phone number in case we get lost!!