Thread based e-mail including transmitting one e-mail copy and host-specific e-mail distribution lists

摘要

Systems and methods for providing electronic messaging services to multiple users by storing a single copy of an electronic message at a central location and notifying recipients of the stored single copy. An electronic message includes a distribution list and a message content. A distribution list identifying multiple recipients causes prior art systems to duplicate the entire message for each recipient, placing potentially large demands on both processing power and storage space. In contrast, the systems and methods disclosed herein store a single copy or a limited number of copies of an electronic message addressed to multiple recipients and provide each recipient with a relatively small notification. In addition to providing information regarding content and origin, the notification also provides access to the stored message. Furthermore, the methods and systems also aid in organizing replies to electronic messages. Replies are associated with an initial message through a message identifier. The association helps to organize electronic messages by subject and provides context without requiring an author to duplicate the content of the initial message with the reply.