In CiviCRM, a group is a collection of contacts that share some common characteristic or attribute, and a smart group is a group that is dynamically generated based on a set of search criteria.

The decision to use a CiviCRM smart group vs. a normal group depends on your specific use case and needs. Here are some considerations: Size of the group: If you have a large group of contacts that are constantly changing, a smart group may be more appropriate. This is because a smart group is dynamically generated based on search criteria, so it will automatically update as contacts are added or removed from the database.

A normal group, on the other hand, would require manual updates to ensure that it is up-to-date. Complexity of the search criteria: If you need to create a group based on complex search criteria, a smart group may be more appropriate. This is because a smart group allows you to create complex search queries using AND, OR, and NOT operators, as well as other advanced search options. A normal group, on the other hand, is created by manually selecting contacts one by one or through an import process.

Frequency of use: If you need to use a group frequently or on an ongoing basis, a normal group may be more appropriate. This is because a normal group can be created and managed quickly and easily, and can be used for a wide variety of purposes. A smart group, on the other hand, may require more time and effort to set up and manage, particularly if the search criteria are complex or change frequently.

In summary, the decision to use a CiviCRM smart group vs. a normal group depends on factors such as the size of the group, the complexity of the search criteria, and the frequency of use. It's important to carefully consider your needs and use case to determine which type of group is most appropriate.