In another message I noted that I was strongly against splintering the
list.

I have put together a few hints for writing and reading list messages that
will make it easier to get through 100 messages in 5 minutes or less (a bit
more if you are answering a lot of them, of course!):

1. Learn how to use your newsreader to do the following (these are options
virtually all newsreaders have:
        a. Ignore messages read in previous sessions.
        b. "Follow up" or "reply" to messages.  This keeps your response in
the same thread so it will not start a new heading.  If your newsreader has
both options, "reply" will usually refer to a private response whereas "follow
up" will refer to a public posting on the list with the option of a private
copy to the person whose message you are answering.
        c. Start a new message thread.
        d. Edit the amount of previous message that you include in your
response.
        e. Have all messages appear in a single window without opening new
windows (this is vital if you are using a Windows-based reader).

2. Use a clear description of content when starting a new thread: for example
"Increased LIST-SERV Activity", the heading for the original thread from which
this branched, really should have been something like "Subdivide Museum List?"
since that was what the main point of the message.

3. If the main topic of your response diverges from the originating thread,
start a new topic.  This lets discussion progress naturally while alerting
potential readers of a major new branch in the content.  For instance, after I
answered the issue of splintering the list in a response to the original
posting, I started this thread to focus on the message handling aspect.

4. Always include the content of your comment, i.e., never send a message that
says "What he/she said".  If the original message has scrolled off the list or
is not being read, this is worse than useless to a reader.

5. Try to remember that people are usually paying to read what you write so
keep it as short as possible unless you are doing a "Frequently Asked
Questions" sheet or "Tipsheet" like this one.  Then you want to be as
inclusive as you can so people can save it to file or print it for reference.
 (In which case you should put "FAQ" or "Tips" in the subject.

6. Read over what you write before you hit the "send" button.  This will often
save embarassment, correction postings and the occasional "flame war".

There are a lot of other ways to make life easier when using lists, but these
six are a basic foundation.