Outlook Distribution Lists, also called Distribution Groups, are groups of email recipients addressed as a single recipient. In other words, multiple email addresses under one.
You have probably seen or used them without knowing because many companies communicate internally through distribution lists or tried in the past. This is how they look like on Outlook:
How to find distribution lists in Outlook:
1. Open Desktop or Web Outlook.
2. Click “New email” on Outlook Desktop or “New message” on Outlook Web.
3. Click “To” in the new email window. Then select “All Distribution Lists” from the “Address Book”.
Why should you care about it?
A Distribution list is a practical solution for internal communications. You don’t need to type emails one by one. Before Microsoft Teams, businesses and universities used distribution lists to communicate internally.
However, with the rise of Microsoft Teams, distribution lists have become outdated due to more efficient communication tools.
The problem with distribution lists:
Distribution lists are no longer as efficient. With the average person receiving over 128 emails daily, it’s hard to get attention through email. Moreover, distribution lists are disconnected from Microsoft Teams, and thus can’t be used for chats or group calls.
Alternatives to distribution lists:
Microsoft has introduced several group types to replace distribution lists, such as Microsoft 365 groups, security groups, and mail-enabled security groups.
What if my company still relies on distribution lists?
If your company is not ready to switch, Distribution Lists Pro app can sync your distribution lists with Microsoft Teams, allowing you to use them for chats and video calls.
