List the last messages sent to distribution groups

Here we explain how to list the most recent messages sent to distribution groups, with the date of last use and the number of messages in the period. 

This article is part of a series entitled How to detect and delete unused distribution groups. However, you do not need to read the other articles to use this one.

Check your history

To obtain reliable results, you must first check that the traffic information you have collected is older than your reporting period. In our case, check in File > Database Properties that the history in your database is at least 12 months old:

The Distribution Group Usage report

To perform this task, a dedicated report called Distribution Group Usage is available in the Organization Overview category.

• Select the last 12 months in the Period tab:

• In the Selection tab, check the Distribution group box. By default, all groups are selected. 

If you're reading this article as part of our procedure for detecting unused groups, you can load the selection file you created at the end of the first step to select only groups with no traffic for 90 days.

•  In the Content tab, check the boxes for Used distribution groups and Originators. This option lists the senders of messages to the groups, the date last sent and the total number of messages during the period.

• Click Run report.

You will then see a list of the groups used in the last 12 months, together with their most recent users.

If you have only selected groups with no traffic in the last 90 days, those that have nevertheless been recently used will appear in the list.