Features
- Google Groups can be used for access permissions for Google resources, including Google Drive, Docs, Calendars and Sites.
- Can be used as a mailing list for all users within a group.
- Google Groups can be used to invite groups to calendar events.
- The group manager can subscribe or unsubscribe users.
- Group members can subscribe or unsubscribe from groups (optional).
- Groups access is controlled by the group manager.
- Sending permissions can be restricted to owners and/or subscribers, with or without moderation.
The table below compares Google Groups and Exchange distribution list features.
| Feature | Google Groups | Distribution Lists |
|---|---|---|
| Mailing list | Yes | Yes |
| Active Directory access control | No | Yes |
| Owner/manager can subscribe or unsubscribe users | Yes | Yes |
| Users can subscribe or unsubscribe themselves | Optional | No |
| Moderated | Optional | No |
| Daily digest capability | Yes | No |
| Restricted to users with IdentiKeys | No | Yes |
Cost
Google Groups is included in the set of core applications for CU Boulder's Google Workspace service, which means there is no direct cost to group owners or members.
Who can get it
Faculty, staff and students provisioned with Google accounts.
How to get it
Submit a Google Group Request Form through OIT's Messaging and Collaboration Request Portal with the following information:
- The new group owner's IdentiKey username or CU Boulder email address.
- Your department or organization's name (selected from a drop-down menu).
- A short, descriptive group name. The full name will use this format: [DeptPrefix]-GG-[GroupName] (e.g., dept-gg-gradstudents@colorado.edu).
- A custom display name, if desired (e.g., XYZ Department Grad Students).
- Which type of sending permissions to use for your Google Group:
- Sending is restricted to owners
- Sending is restricted to subscribers/owners
- Sending is restricted to owners or subscribers, moderated for non-subscribers
- Sending is restricted to subscribers, but email will have to be approved by owners
An OIT specialist will create the account and get in touch with you once it's created.
