(from Miranda Gray; suggestion)

Selecting a Newsgroup
=====================

When you become an Information Provider with FreeNet, you are encouraged
to select a newsgroup to accompany your online material. The newsgroup
provides a place for readers to post question about your organization or
can provide a hangout for your organization's members. You have several
options about the newsgroup.

1) Sharing a newsgroup with identical organizations.

Newsgroups can have hundreds of thousands or participants or just a
handful of people. Some NCF IPs are very specialized. There may be few
people in the area who share this interest. However, there may be a strong
national or international group already online. If you know of an online
newsgroup, you can direct people to it from your NCF menu or Webpage.

If your topic is very specialized, the only newsgroups available may be
international newsgroups. These newsgroups are carried on many many
computers around the world. 

2) Sharing a regional newsgroup with similar organizations and people. 

If you want to reach mostly local people, you may prefer to participant in
one of regional newsgroups. ott.* newsgroups are newsgroups for the
Ottawa-Hull Region. ont.* newsgroups cover all of Ontario. Finally can.*
newsgroups are Canada's national discussion areas. These newsgroups can be
made available anywhere in the world on demand. Generally they are carried
by all the networks within the geographical area. Regional groups are the
best way to reach your neighbours.

3) Asking for a private newsgroup just for your organization.

NCF recognizes that some groups have a need for extra privacy. NCF can
provide a private newsgroup here on NCF. The postings will be readable via
the web anywhere in the world but only NCF members will be able to join in
the discussion.

Of course, you aren't limited to just one newsgroup. You can put lots of
newsgroups in your information area. Experience has taught us that
newsgroups are one of the most popular features of NCF. Our memebrs like
to talk. You will get feedback on your information if you tell people how
to get in contact with you. 

If you aren't sure what kind of newsgroup is best for your group, the NCF
can give you advice. It isn't a permanent decision. You can always add a
private group later if you need one. Call the office if you would like
advice on what option to pursue.