Phone calls and letters sent home work best for us, too. We are working on developing a website for our PTO that will link with our school board's site. It probably won't get utilized that much, but I felt that having a website was important to keep our parents as informed as possible.

We had a yahoo group set up a couple of years ago, and most did not bother with it. I only get about 35% of our members even utilizing the email tool (although that 35% is about 100% of the actual active members) We also have a webpage, but it's not interactive, more an FYI area. I prefer e-mail and online activity, it's much easier for me . . . but I am finding that the phone calls and backpack mail works the best for our group.

As we gear up for the new school year, I was hoping for a discussion on what electronic communication tools you use within your group.

We probably all use standard email, so let's skip that.

I belong to several different organizations such as parent groups, sports team, advisory committees and each struggles with the best way to communicate.

Probably the majority of mine seem to be using Google Groups. I think one or two may use Yahoo Groups. I do like the groups as it adds some continuity to the message threads and a place to store information.

Do you have any preferences? Strengths/weaknesses?

Has anyone tried a new one called "CircleUp"? It has a lot of the same benefits as Google and Yahoo, but seems to also have some nice question/survey capabilities that would be good for setting a meeting time or making a decision. The originator poses the question (via email) and all answers are summarized rather than sent back as individual email responses.

It's free, but they do seem to add marketing text (for the use of their site) onto every message. I'm not sure yet if it's too much or a fair exchange for a free service. (If anyone wants to test it with me, let me know.)

What else are you using? Any advice on what NOT to use?