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This looks like it does just what I need, but it does NOT installl on a vanilla 1.7 site.
I went to the developers website to confirm that it was 1.7 compatible, and it shows the correct tag, but the download does not actually install correctly on 1.7. Hopefully the guys will get the package updated.

Like most good add-ons this is a very simple plugin that does just what it says with the minimum of fuss.
I have a club website that I want people to be able to use occasionally without having to remember their usernames... and this fills that need.
It allows login using username or email address interchangeably, and has a very small footprint on the system, just install it, enable it and forget it.
Recommended.

I am prompted to write a review simply because the previous review [BBC2009 I think...]is either deliberate flaming or based on a rushed assessment at best.

I have been using Fabrik for a couple of years on a few sites, and I am willing to concede that it could do with a better forum/search system for help, but the guys who are developing the product are spending their time on fixing bugs/upgrading/helping users, not mending the search system.

It can be difficult to find the right thread to solve your particular problem agreed, but I have virtually never had to ask a question directly, and when I have, I have had an excellent response in a very good timeframe.

I have also never seen any rudeness on the part of the support crew, even when they are dealing with people who have wildly unrealistic expectations, and apparently more teeth than brain cells!

Like all really complex products which are highly customizable, the learning curve is steep, but the wiki and the video walkthoughs will show anyone with half a brain how to get started, and after that, it will take you as far as you want to go.

Any honest assessment of a random selection of support issues in the Fabrik forum will show that time and time again the developers and their loyal helpers are patient and generous in supporting 'freebie' clients.

The product does what it says on the tin, and the prices for premium support are negligible in comparison to commercial equivalents which offer far less capability.

And for those who are thinking I work for Fabrik or something, A) I don't, and B)Go look at the free support forums to see how much effort Rob 'n Hugh 'n crew put in and C)Read the rest of the review down below...

This simple add-in does a straightforward job very well. It is perfect for allowing a small group of users who share a site to email each other en masse.

Provided you ensure that your *registered* users understand that they are liable to receive mail from other *registered* users you are NOT sending spam.

We use this for my golf society just to keep in touch with each other with things like 'Do you guys want to organise a day out next month?'