On their Web page, I found this introduction:

"DreamWave (formerly Boston Online) is a mailing list dedicated to discussion, speculation and sharing of information about the most strategic new products, technologies and trends on the Internet and World Wide Web. Its primary focus is on search engines, personal news services, hypermedia mail, global hypermedia groupware, and privacy and intelligence issues. Subscribers share pointers to and comparative evaluations of cutting edge online software, services, sites, tools, techniques and concepts. Exploration of the social implications of new online technology is welcome, but secondary to the emphasis on next wave tools.

"Most DreamWave participants are intensely involved in the development, evaluation or use of innovative new Internet and Web software like Excite NewsTracker, Netscape Inbox Direct, Castanet and similar technologies..."

I hadn't heard anyone mention Castanet as "innovative" or "new" in years, so I decided the intro was probably a little dated. Still, the discussion itself looked of interest.

I especially like the way they laid out their guidelines:

1. Be strategic. Focus on the most strategic cutting edge developments in online technology and culture. Push the envelope and push it hard. Many of the list members are involved in the creation of cutting edge Internet and Web software and related technology. The list has been created primarily for them to share pointers and ideas...." (Snip)

"2. Be concise. DreamWave puts a strong emphasis on quality over quantity of messages, and on signal to noise. Try to put a few important new ideas or pieces of concrete information in every message you post, and be as brief and to the point as possible. We are looking for concise pointers to highly strategic new resources and news about cutting edge online developments, and concise and original comments and analysis about those items..." (Snip)

"3. Be concrete. Ground any larger philosophical generalizations or speculations in specific and particular technologies, products and features, the more cutting edge and strategic, the better. Don't woolgather.

"4. Be original. Don't simply agree with or amen other messages, or post enthusiastic generalities. Share with the list fresh and provocative ideas and information that are difficult to find in other sources. Break new ground. Challenge us with creative concepts.

"5. Be polite. Don't attack or insult other list members. The list has zero tolerance for flames."

I would recommend you check out the details, if you like this kind of forward-looking conversation and join in yourself if you believe you have something to say.