Getting help - using mailing listsWritten by Dianne Reuby
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If you get a digest version, don't just click reply when you submit a post. This will include a copy of entire digest in your post. People who are getting digest version find it almost impossible to disentangle new posts from copies of old posts and digests. I've sometimes given up trying to read some digests, when everyone has copied a whole thread, and added their post! Always include a subject - list members won't always be interested in every post. Digest versions include a contents list which show subject. If you're replying to a previous post, start with RE (for REply), and then subject. Some lists allow off-topic posts. In this case, start your subject line with letters OT, and suggest that list members contact you "off list" - by emailing you direct rather than posting. This is a courtesy - some lists are happy to have off topic threads, especially if they will interest other members. Some lists have a completely seperate mailing list for off topic stuff. You may find it helpful to "lurk" for a while - just reading what other people have to say before making your first post. This will give you a feel for list and its' rules. You may like to use your first post to introduce yourself - that way, people know that you're new, and will make allowances for any posting errors you may make. I've found mailing lists invaluable in getting help with new software and hardware, exchanging information about my business interests and hobbies, for getting advice before making a purchase or choosing goods, and meeting people from around world with similar interests.
Dianne Reuby is co-author of the e-book "First Website Builder". Dianne created and runs the First Web Builder site, dedicated to providing ebooks and tips for new webmasters. Visit FWB at http://firstwebbuilder.co.uk/ AOL
| | Free or Commercial Hosting. Which is Best?Written by Alex DeBarros
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Make sure that host offers an account that will provide you with enough space for your site. Your need for space will vary depending on how many and how large your graphics are, whether you have audio or video on your site, any large databases, etc. Reliability and Speed This is another important factor. Make sure that your site won't experience long amounts of down time and slow loading when visitors try to access your pages. Choosing a Commercial Web Host Reliability and Speed A site that is frequently down or slow will always loose visitors. Make sure you host has a fast connection to Internet (T-3 lines are a must) that guarantees a minimum of 99 per cent uptime. Space Be sure that your hosting package allows you enough space for your site. If you have a large Web site or many Web sites that have numerous pages, images, audio files, video files, animation, databases or scripts be sure to have at least 100 MB of space. The same goes for bandwidth. Technical and Customer Support I cannot stress enough how important this issue is. Make sure that its technical support functions 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Test them out by seeing how long it takes them to respond to e-mails, call tech support line on weekends, late at night, etc. Features Look for a host that provides features for your site such as a CGI-BIN for scripts, SSI, a secure server for secure items or online orders, FTP access, POP e-mail accounts, a Control Panel where you can view you account stats, Telnet etc. Price This is perhaps most important element to consider when choosing a host. Cheaper is not always better. There are many companies that seem competitive and often unbelievable prices, but end up providing unreliable uptimes, slow delivery of your site to visitors and slow support response times. Invest into a hosting provider that offers average prices, chances are higher prices are committed to support functions such as a 24/7 support staff.
About The Author Alex DeBarros is a published author and webmaster of BrandBlast Hosting.(http://www.brandblast.com) BrandBlast's plan start at only $14.99 and offer CGI, PHP, Control Panel, Shopping Carts, and many other features designed to accomodate your website as it grows. BrandBlast's fast, friendly, award winning support team is available 24/7. Mention this article and receive your second month free!
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