distributelists

Distributelists, commonly referred to as distribution lists, are a mechanism for delivering messages to multiple recipients using a single address. Instead of listing each recipient, a sender uses the list’s alias, which is expanded by the mail system to reach all members. They are widely used to simplify mass communications within organizations.

Membership can be static or dynamic. Static lists assign a fixed set of members that must be updated manually when people join or leave. Dynamic lists determine membership through rules or directory attributes (such as department or location), so recipients are added or removed automatically as attributes change. Some systems support nested lists, where a list can include other lists as members, enabling hierarchical grouping.

Management and governance are core aspects of distributelists. Administrators or elected owners control who can view or modify membership, what messages are permitted, and whether moderation is required. Delivery controls may restrict who can send to the list (e.g., only internal senders), while moderation workflows can queue messages for approval before distribution.

Platforms and use cases vary. In organizations, distributelists underpin broadcast communications, project updates, and department-wide announcements. They appear as Exchange distribution groups, Active Directory groups, or Google Groups, among others, and are also implemented in traditional mailing-list software like Listserv or Mailman. They are distinct from discussion-oriented mailing lists, which support threaded conversations and archives.

Security and privacy considerations are important. Lists may reveal membership or allow external sending, depending on configuration. Regular audits, membership hygiene, and appropriate access controls help mitigate risks such as unauthorized use or outdated addresses.