If you've noticed that some of your synced distribution lists display a dash (—) instead of a member count in the Members column of your Synced Distribution Lists table, you're in the right place. Here's what's going on and why there's nothing to worry about.
The Short Answer
The Azure Sync tile uses the Microsoft Graph API to retrieve distribution list information. Graph API has a limitation: it can only return member counts for certain types of distribution lists. For DLs that fall outside of what Graph supports, such as those with hidden members, dynamic lists, or external recipients, a member count simply isn't available at sync time, so a dash is displayed instead.
Why This Happens
When ContactMonkey syncs your distribution lists through the Azure tile, it pulls data using Graph-based calls. Some distribution list configurations aren't fully supported by Graph at the time of sync, including:
- Distribution Lists with Hidden Members: the member roster is concealed by your organization's settings
- Dynamic Distribution Lists: lists that contain other lists as members
- External Recipients: lists that include addresses outside your Azure directory
Because Graph can't return a reliable count for these list types during the initial sync, the Members column shows a dash rather than an inaccurate number.
Don't Worry, Everything Still Works at Send Time
A dash in the Members column does not mean your send will be affected. ContactMonkey automatically uses the best available expansion method at the time you send your email. This means:
- The correct recipient count will be calculated at send time
- These distribution lists will expand properly, so your email reaches everyone on the list
- No action is required on your part
The dash is simply a reflection of what's available during the Azure sync process — it's not an error, and it won't impact your email delivery.
Quick Summary
| What you see | What it means |
| A number in Members | Count was available via Graph API at sync time |
| A dash (—) in Members | Count isn't available via Graph, but will be calculated at send time |
If you have further questions about your distribution lists or syncing behaviour, please reach out to support@contactmonkey.com.