I must say that I completely agree with Max - I also hate the system.

However, (that wonderful word, beloved of all academics!) I have found ti very useful in the past in keeping in touch with people on the board who have been having e-mail problems, so I am prepared to forgive it it's shortcomings.
Also, I haven't published my e-mail address to all and sundry, so how the hell else can they get in touch, one asks?