Setting Up a Distribution List for Catalyst Alerts

A distribution list acts as a shared address (e.g., catalystalerts@yourcompany.com) that automatically forwards alerts to everyone who needs them — saving you time and preventing missed notifications.

Why Set Up a Distribution List?

Managing alert recipients manually can quickly become unmanageable as teams grow or change. A dedicated distribution list helps you:

• Centralize management: Control recipients from your end without needing EBM’s help.
• Ensure continuity: New hires or role changes won’t interrupt alert delivery.
• Save time: Update one shared address instead of editing individual user emails.
• Increase reliability: Catalyst sends alerts to one stable address rather than multiple contacts.

Example: Create a single mailbox such as catalystalerts@yourcompany.com and provide this address to EBM. Any changes you make to the DL membership will automatically flow through.

How to Set Up a Distribution List

Most organizations manage DLs through an internal IT or system administration portal. The general process is:

1. Access your admin portal – Log into your organization’s email admin center (Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, etc.).
2. Create a new group or DL – Name it something clear like “Catalyst Alerts.”
3. Assign an email address – e.g., catalystalerts@yourcompany.com.
4. Add members – Include everyone who should receive system alerts.
5. Test the list – Send a quick test email to confirm delivery to all members.
6. Provide the address to EBM – Once verified, share the DL email address with your EBM representative so it can be linked to your Catalyst instance.

Step-by-Step: Microsoft 365

If your company uses Microsoft 365, follow these specific steps.

Step 1 – Access the Admin Center

Visit admin.microsoft.com and sign in using your administrator credentials.

Step 2 – Open Groups

From the left menu, select Groups › Active groups.

Step 3 – Add a Group

Click Add a group, choose Distribution, and select Next.

Step 4 – Enter Group Details

Give the group a clear Name (e.g., Catalyst Alerts) and define the group email address (e.g., catalystalerts@yourcompany.com).

Step 5 – Assign Owners and Members

• Add yourself or another IT administrator as the Owner.
• Add all relevant team members as Members.
  Owners can add or remove members later without recreating the list.

Step 6 – Review and Create

Confirm the details and click Create group.

Step 7 – Test Delivery

Send a test email to the new DL address and verify that everyone receives it.
Adjust members or permissions if needed.

Step 8 – Provide to EBM

Once confirmed, send the DL address to your EBM contact or Support team.
EBM will configure Catalyst to route all system alerts to this address.

Tips and Best Practices

• Use a clear, dedicated address like catalystalerts@company.com rather than reusing existing team inboxes.
• Keep at least two owners to prevent lockout if someone leaves.
• Review memberships quarterly to keep recipients current.
• Don’t forward personal mailboxes — DLs ensure continuity if individuals change roles.
• If your IT blocks external senders, confirm that emails from @ebmsoftware.com are allowed so alerts are delivered.

Need Help?

If you encounter issues creating your distribution list or testing delivery:

• Contact your internal IT department for assistance with Microsoft 365 or email configurations.
• If you’ve confirmed your DL works but Catalyst alerts still aren’t received, reach out to EBM Support via Submit a Request.

By setting up a dedicated distribution list, your team can stay consistently informed about Catalyst system activity and potential integration issues. This simple step helps reduce missed alerts, streamlines communication, and ensures your organization is always one step ahead in monitoring data health and performance.