Text messages & Facebook chats?

I'm 30-years-old, single and have lots of single girl friends. I have lots of dating and married friends, too, but I do spend a lot of time with close friends who are women and who are not dating any one person exclusively...and who are also trying to figure out the mucky world of dating. So yes, we talk about dating, we ask each other questions and look for feedback.

The big confusion lately seems to be caused by technology. Yes, we live in a world of instant everything. Instant coffee. Instant GPS. Instant messaging.

In the past week, I've had more than one friend get asked out by men over the age of 30 via text message or Facebook chat. And sometimes it's then slightly confusing for the girl. Is he just inviting me to an event? Is he taking me out on a date? Is it a mass text? Should I invite m other friends? How do I respond if I'm not sure what it is?

I'm not trying to make fun of anyone...but honestly I'm curious, is it OK for a man to ask out a woman on a date via text or instant message?