Every participant needs email, with capacity for a reply-to line in the head and html email. This presumes their ability to type efficiently and to express their thought adequately in email.

Downloadable email is normally better that server-based email that can only be used while online. If you must use the latter, then you need to know how to make the best use of enclosures and how to copy and past mail to documents. That way, you can read your mail while off-line so that you can think better about how you might respond.

A central email engine is desirable. These programs automatically forward any participant's email to all other registered group members. While it is possible to use an ordinary addressing system, the potential for error makes them less preferable.

It's also a good idea to have a website to which papers can be posted, preferably with a search function.