Hello... I have been thinkign a bit about the best way to offer customers a way to meet, talk and help themselves a bit.

The two main choices I see are a Web Based Forum (like this one) and a Mailing List (Like Cobalt's list for example)

Now, each has its own advantages... from a customer poitn of view, wich one is best?

From my point of view I prefer the mailing list because it allow me to send out news, company related stuff, etc and be sure that everyone reads it... plus I personally like a slow mailing list than a slow forums (wich looks empty)

What do you think?

I think mailing list by far, since not everyone will take the time to visit forums. At least with mailing lists you're guaranteed to reach their mailboxes and if they don't have enough time at least they can scan it in the privacy of their mailbox later on.

If mailing list is the answer I would be int. in what software everyone recommends.

majordomo is the most used one.
http://www.greatcircle.com/majordomo/

I think a mailing list would be a better Idea...

But I would also think forums like catalogs are good, clients can go share Ideas, help each other etc...

well users can participate in a mailing list... in fact you often see boards generated from mailing lists as they follow the same type of rules. (almost)

Ok, my decision is made... thanks everyone.

My own thoughts are mixed.

I could see a discussion forum for typical questions/concerns. In that way, visitors can check the board for previous posts and fixes, especially for FAQ items.

On the other hand, I think that a mailing list can be a great source for ongoing discussion and the immediate, 'guaranteed' distribution of urgent/priority questions.

How would be a Knowledge Database and a Mailing list?

The Knowledge DB contains all FAQ, answered support e-mails, etc and the mailing list is used by 'old' customers to squeeze the very little bit of support, info, tips and tricks of their account.

Would that do nicely?

I think that that would be a perfect mix.

I would also actively promote the two in both places for maximum usage and productivity.

http://www.topica.com/

Not sure you've seen this, but this is some sort of mailing list, which is also viewable via URL (topics listed). Now, you might not want this, but you may be able to find/create something similar which is even searchable. If old news, please disregard... :)

thats in my further plans...
if I had all the time I wanted... woa I could make some really nice scripts to fulfill my dreams :)

first get my CP done
*kicks himself in the ass* and ASAP!