We have a large family that is spread over the US. We email each other via a large distribution list 30-50 times a day. I thought that it might me easier to create a small private forum to have our discussions on. I am not a tech savvy person. How difficult is this to do?
It's like anything, not that difficult once you know how. There are two ways: 1) You'll need a hosting account that allows you to have a database. This will cost around $5 a month, you'll also need a domain name (8$ a year) and some ftp software (free ones are available). Some hosting companies provide a forum as a one click install. If not then you could set up your own following the instructions of the forum software. For forum software I'd recommend SMF or PHPBB3 as they are free and well supported. 2) There are lots of free forum providers, who provide a free service but make their money from displaying their ads. This might be a better option given your intended use, but bear in mind you have limited control over what you can do and you will not own it. Take your pick from the following: free forum hosting - Google Search
My senior class has a website at a place called MyFamily.com It doesn't cost us much per year at all. We can post pics and see who's on line, etc...great way for us to stay in touch. It may be something that works for you.
