This paper gives an overview of the support for asynchronous group com
munication given in the existing X.400/MHS (Message Handling System) a
nd Usenet News standards. One conclusion is that much of the needed fu
nctionality can be provided by the proper use of existing standards. T
he paper then describes the present status of the work within ISO and
CCITT in developing standards for asynchronous group communication, an
d for computer conferencing and bulletin board applications.