Trains4U Posted November 24, 2011 Share Posted November 24, 2011 What can I say... Well, lots actually - I have advertisements on here - and I guess that was my initial reason for joining five years ago, but it is now so much more than that for me. RMWeb is my club (I'm not affiliated with any of the local clubs) and there are a number of people on here who I count among my friends. What is it for me? An opportunity to share and gain knowledge - I always need to learn, I get all sorts of help from the topics on here and in turn I pay it back by passing on what I have learned for myself. The honest and open nature of the forum means that we have (usually) objective reviews and assessments of new models, and where something gets a bad review, not just criticism, but usually constructive and helpful tips on how to remedy the problems. The modelling skills on here range from some of the best in the world to absolute beginners, but there is no elitism and everyone is made to feel welcome and equal, and the willingness with which others share their skills and experiences results in a truly unbeatable resource, impossible to replicate in print or at any one model club, which are often troubled by the issues mentioned above. I've watched the forum grow and evolve from the first years with only a few hundred members, the growth of the membership, the increasing elaborateness of the Member's days, the gradual thawing and growth of what are now strong relationships with initially dismissive and sceptical manufacturers, the various versions of the forum as the demand has grown and changed and I think it can now be argued that this is now one of the premier and most influential model railway resources available. To say that RMWeb Ranks fourth in the world in it's category is testament to this. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
St. Simon Posted November 24, 2011 Share Posted November 24, 2011 Hi, Hmmm, hard to put my fingure on what it really means, dad and I always have these type of talks about RMweb after coming home from RMweb events. RMweb is not a website or forum, but a family or club! Look how many jokes there are flying about about members that we can all have a laugh at, it's fantastic! Being a member has opened my eyes to not only some outstanding modelling, but also my knowledge, it wasn't until I joined that I found out how little I knew, but also how much I knew as well, and it's certainly how given me alot more knowledge than if I hadn't actually joined. It has also given me a sense of being, there's not many places I can go and talk about trains, certainly not school, at 17 your judged on what you like and do, but when I come home and get on here, I feel like I've walked into a community, where I'm treated as an equal and not judged on what I like, it feels nice to be somewhere like that. RMweb shows the wider community that most of us modellers aren't rivet counters and anaraks, but just normal people that are simple proud of their hobby. We are all nice people and I've meant some really really nice people through here, and have had some incredibly nice comments on my work, and that gives me the inspiration to carry on modellering. People have not only helped me in railway problems, but also in life problems, and that makes the community feel even better. Personnally I think that the RMweb events are the best modelling events I go to, and Dad enjoys them as well, they are not like any other exhibitions, they are friendly and there's no sense of urgency when operating. As the Carlsberg advert goes.... "If RMweb did clubs, it would probably be the best club in the world!" Simon Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
RMweb Premium 2ManySpams Posted November 24, 2011 RMweb Premium Share Posted November 24, 2011 It's my club My source of inspiration and answers A great place to chat and shake off the grief of the daily job Above all it's been a great way too meet loads of like-minded folk, learn and improve Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Rugd1022 Posted November 24, 2011 Share Posted November 24, 2011 In a nutshell : A place where people from a diverse backgrounds can share their interest in model railways no geographical boundaries in both the literal and modelling sense covers a wide range of subjects (a website is the only media that can cope with this) ask a question, it's rare that you won't get a reply etc... I well recall the incarnation (and subsequent rebirths) of RMweb in March 2005 - a fledgling newcomer somewhere out on the fringe. RMweb has progressively become mainstream in a positive way and moved significantly towards the centre without losing some of that fringe mentality - hopefully, looking to the future, this continues... dilbert Dilbert has pretty much encapsulated what it means here, there's not much I can add to it really but the good will, genuine warmth and seemingly endless encouragement is evident everytime I open up RMWeb on my pc screen.... there are precious few forums of any kind I can think of that have managed to keep up this consistant quality, helpfullness and open minded attitude to complete strangers, without getting too big for their boots or imploding at the first sign of trouble, long may it continue, my time on the pc would certainly be duller without it Andy. That it is 'fourth in the world' for want of a better description speaks volumes, that must take some beating for a hobby based forum! When things do go wrong, often as not the good ship RMWeb soon finds itself back on an even keel, and each incarnation just gets better than the last. As others have said, for me it's always my first and last port of call whenever I'm online, there's always something good worth looking at or reading and the free flow of information and help is heartwarming. There are other railway based forums which I frequent regularly, but none of them have this feeling of 'coming home' quite like RMWeb does.... for me, the hobby would not be the same without it Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
travelintrev Posted November 24, 2011 Share Posted November 24, 2011 I don't have much to add to what's allready been said, but living were I do, there is little chance or time to day any thing more than "armchair" modelling. However it does allow me to keep up with what is going on, even though I never have (and probably never will) model mainstream 00. There is some impressive work being done. The courtesy extended to newcomers and returnees alike is outstanding. Thankyou, Trev. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
plarailfan Posted November 24, 2011 Share Posted November 24, 2011 RMweb is a great place to socialise with fellow modellers. Members come from all walks of life, and you only have to glance at the wheeltappers thread, to find a diverse range of subjects, problems and enquiries, about life in general, along with advice and helpful suggestions. In view of the current state of the economy, no doubt pensions, retiring age and unemployment / redundancy / jobseeking topics will be under the microscope from time to time in here. I know I'm not a very good modeller compared to some members, but I do have fun, and my layout gives me satisfaction and pleasure, so It's nice to see what other people are doing. Thanks for sharing your hobby, folks and thanks Andy, for a well organised site. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
RMweb Gold chris p bacon Posted November 24, 2011 RMweb Gold Share Posted November 24, 2011 It has the feel of a club for me, first thing I look at when the pc is on and last when I turn it off. My wife calls it "my railway porn" oooeeeerr missus Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Trains4U Posted November 24, 2011 Share Posted November 24, 2011 It has the feel of a club for me, first thing I look at when the pc is on and last when I turn it off. My wife calls it "my railway porn" oooeeeerr missus Sometimes my wife says she'd prefer if it were porn... RMWeb seems to be all I look at - she says it's not "Normal" Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest dilbert Posted November 24, 2011 Share Posted November 24, 2011 Nidge's post knocked me out of my reverie after having eaten dinner. I had meant to develop the 'fringe mentality' comment : it isn't necessarily a reference to whacky subjects or to some of the oddball characters that have come and gone, but also refers to gestures and actions that have occured. I'm sure the RMweb stalwarts will recall two of these : The first is when we learnt about the death of 111 (aka 'wickets') - Andy made a donation of behalf of RMweb to a cancer research group after consulting with 111's widow about funeral arrangements. The second involved DonBradley starting a thread about building a layout for an underpriviledged African youngster called Thabo. I don't recall the detail on how this evolved, but in the end it was Gordon S who acted as a point of contact to collect material and donations that other members were prepared to make and made the necessary arrangements for these to get sent to South Africa.. The photo of Thabo's face when he saw the completed layout was 'priceless'. There have been others , but these two are the ones that spring readily to mind... dilbert Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Coldgunner Posted November 24, 2011 Share Posted November 24, 2011 I'm sure we all get a bit sweaty on a major announcement thread... Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest Max Stafford Posted November 24, 2011 Share Posted November 24, 2011 One common thread seems to run through the bulk of postings here in that RMweb has become almost family like. It's different things at different times for me and the social element is very strong. Working in a job where the anti-social nature of the shift pattern largely mitigates against having any kind of meaningful social interaction outside of the professional sphere, the forum gives me contact with the wider world on my own terms. I've actually made some very good friends as a result of being on here and in times where things haven't been so good personally, I've even found support and sometimes just a place to let off steam without causing any harm. I observe that our forum serves as an invaluable conduit for the exchange of all kinds of skills and knowledge. My own modelling has improved hugely as a result of what I've learned on here and I try to give something back by sharing my own knowledge. It's my own perception that it has also helped to advance the standards of commercially produced models, the most obvious example currently being the sublime class 22, developed with a great deal of consultation and very publicly displayed here throughout its gestation. This has been a mutually beneficial experience for both sides and the dialogue between Dave and his consumers has been almost heartwarming to witness. A very real and positive relationship has developed here and even when problems have arisen as with the decoder socket issue, mutual goodwill has provided a quick solution. Similar forces can be seen at work in the development of Bachmann's B*** P****** where the designers have come to us for help. I think between us all, we have achieved a great deal here in a short time and it's probably fair to say RMweb currently plays a massive part in my own life. Whether that's totally healthy is another matter but hey, it's working for me so far! Dave. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
RMweb Gold The Stationmaster Posted November 24, 2011 RMweb Gold Share Posted November 24, 2011 Coachman, Olddudders and Max Stafford have summed it up for me. I never have been much of a 'joiner' when it comes to clubs and things - all too cliquey for my attitude to life - but RMWEb isn't and that's part of what I like. And I doubt if I would have bought a C&L point kit if it hadn't beeen for RMWEb and at some stage it might well be that the helpful folk round here will give me the hints and tips to put together when I shriek for help and the same with a Comet models chasssis (I never could do pick-ups - maybe I still can't?). So add 'inspirational' to those other comments. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Peter Kazmierczak Posted November 24, 2011 Share Posted November 24, 2011 One common thread seems to run through the bulk of postings here in that RMweb has become almost family like.It's different things at different times for me and the social element is very strong. Working in a job where the anti-social nature of the shift pattern largely mitigates against having any kind of meaningful social interaction outside of the professional sphere, the forum gives me contact with the wider world on my own terms. I've actually made some very good friends as a result of being on here and in times where things haven't been so good personally, I've even found support and sometimes just a place to let off steam without causing any harm. I observe that our forum serves as an invaluable conduit for the exchange of all kinds of skills and knowledge. My own modelling has improved hugely as a result of what I've learned on here and I try to give something back by sharing my own knowledge. It's my own perception that it has also helped to advance the standards of commercially produced models, the most obvious example currently being the sublime class 22, developed with a great deal of consultation and very publicly displayed here throughout its gestation. This has been a mutually beneficial experience for both sides and the dialogue between Dave and his consumers has been almost heartwarming to witness. A very real and positive relationship has developed here and even when problems have arisen as with the decoder socket issue, mutual goodwill has provided a quick solution. Similar forces can be seen at work in the development of Bachmann's B*** P****** where the designers have come to us for help. I think between us all, we have achieved a great deal here in a short time and it's probably fair to say RMweb currently plays a massive part in my own life. Whether that's totally healthy is another matter but hey, it's working for me so far! Dave. Dave, I think we're allowed to say Blue Pullman now, or at least under our breath with fingers crossed............... Regards, Peter Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
RMweb Gold slow8dirty Posted November 24, 2011 RMweb Gold Share Posted November 24, 2011 I'd echo the role of a virtual club, This place has given my modelling far more than I have and could ever put back into it. Occasionally, and I mean very occasionally I actually post something thats of use to someone or answer a question, and the buzz I get from actually being able to put something back in is indicative of what a powerful force for good this place has become. Well as far it goes with toy trains any way, but you know what I mean, I think? basically thanks to all involved it is appreciated. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Kenton Posted November 24, 2011 Share Posted November 24, 2011 simply - for a change - the best club I've felt part of. (but be blowed if I can find which room the test track is hiding) Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
shanks522 Posted November 24, 2011 Share Posted November 24, 2011 RM web for me is a Model railway club in my own home, I learn all sorts of new tips and tricks, see things that i wouldn't normally see thanks to everyone who contributes, Keep up to date with news etc, and occasionally post my own efforts. To sum it up a friendly enviroment to enjoy my hobby with like minded people. Graham. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
10800 Posted November 24, 2011 Share Posted November 24, 2011 Many moons ago, someone in the P4 community asked me if I knew who 'Captain Kernow' was. I had no idea, but I said I'd ask around at DRAG. "It's my name on RMweb", Tim confessed. "What's RMweb?". I joined, bided my time for a while, and eventually posted with some background to Eridge. The response was very favourable, and before long it had drawn me in and it's been an almost daily part of my life since. Whilst I wasn't exclusively focussed on P4 beforehand, the visual component of RMweb widened my horizons much more effectively than any other medium had, and it's been a privilege to see, discuss and learn from models and layouts of all sizes and prototypes. And its been invaluable in getting perspective on some of my own modelling schemes. I'm also pleased that my own knowledge has been of use to others from time to time, and that I've made many friends, albeit some remain only 'virtual'! Membership has increased by an order of magnitude in my time, and the site has gone through several metamorphoses in style and content. Change doesn't always come easily, comfort zones are poked and prodded, but generally Andy's decisions have been the right ones and have been instrumental in putting RMweb in the position it is today. Its design and appearance are fresh and distinguish RMweb from other sites which are adequate but a bit staid in comparison. And MI is yet another stunning feature which I hope goes from strength to strength. RMweb does occupy more of my time than it sometimes should, but the benefits have outweighed the negatives, and it has been a welcome release and entertainment during some fairly stressful periods elsewhere in my life. Someone once said that you should always strive to learn something new every day of your life - RMweb certainly offers that all on its own. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Catkins Posted November 24, 2011 Share Posted November 24, 2011 I would say that RMweb is one of those strange things that tries to be all things to all people - but with ONE defining difference, this one works. I have seen work on here that I would never see in a magazine, topics are raised and discussed, whilst questions and idle curiosity are answered, and inspiration is provided. This place is a virtual club, I've spent nine years working in the evening and as such could never join my 'local' club - in fact I'm not even sure if we have one in Grantham - yet in the time I've been on here I've participated in numerous discussions, and (hopefully) been of some help to some-one, and I have received help from others. RMweb gives the model manufactures, traders, exhibitors and purchasers a level ground to discuss things, and ask opinions and questions, with a near instant response. I can understand why when a serch is done to see were we are in the internet world we only come 4th - and that is because the other three have PAID to get to the top, if the money was removed that would change things. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Philip Jackson Posted November 24, 2011 Share Posted November 24, 2011 I love the photos, videos, models and layouts that have featured and have inspired me to build up my own layout, rather than just collect models and leave them in their boxes. I like people who are (mostly) helpful and friendly and as a result of this site I got in touch with one chap who did a brilliant respray for me. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
RMweb Gold mikes rail Posted November 24, 2011 RMweb Gold Share Posted November 24, 2011 What does RMweb mean to me? A place where people are more than happy to help no matter what your level is when it comes to modelling problems. A place where people can talk about problems in life without being judged. A place of friendship. Its someware to look forward to droping into each day , a club but without any hassle. Long may it continue, thank you to Andy and all who make it so. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
RMweb Premium Physicsman Posted November 24, 2011 RMweb Premium Share Posted November 24, 2011 Good evening to all at RMWeb. I've been a "passive admirer" of this forum for a couple of years, and it's the current thread that has persuaded me to sign up and become a member. I agree with the concensus that RMWeb is akin to family. It's a family of (usually!) like-minded individuals and the up-skilling I've gained, just from reading the content, is marvellous. Like many others, I'm sure I spend FAR too much time on here! I see RMWeb as a real force for progress in the hobby. Long may it continue. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
RMweb Gold Mikkel Posted November 24, 2011 RMweb Gold Share Posted November 24, 2011 Andy's question and the above replies made me realize that (in my case, at least) RMweb now serves a very large part of my railway modelling needs/activities: *club *exhibition *magazine *reference book *showcase *notebook (blog) *diary (blog) *photo album Of course I still consult my books, and if I lived in the UK I would also attend exhibitions regularly. But still, RMweb is now a crucial part of my modelling world. There's always a risk in that, of course. It would be a pity if clubs, exhibitions, magazines and book publishers started closing down as a result of the web and fora like Rmweb. And sometimes a forum can become so self-referential that no innovation is actually made. Fortunately that's not the case with RMweb! How does the saying go: When the winds of change begin to blow, some people build walls, others build windmills. I've always felt that RMweb supported the latter approach, and a big thanks to Andy and everyone for that! Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
muddys-blues Posted November 24, 2011 Share Posted November 24, 2011 Great question.......what does RMWeb mean to me ? Well it is my cyber Modelling Club, a virtual place to come and join in, looking, chatting, enquiring and helping with like minded people in what is truly a great hobby. I find that it is a fantastic library of knowledge and inspiration, also a great place to learn about those dropped goolies, which many of us have done, and where people are not frightened to discuss in the aim of helping us avoid the same pitfalls, and a great place to learn about the trade that support our fantastic hobby. All in all RMWeb is a top site that is one of my main favourite sites when I am surfing the virtual modelling rails. Many thanks to all that have set it up for our benefit and long may it reign. Best regards Craig. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
steam in 50s Posted November 24, 2011 Share Posted November 24, 2011 What does RMweb mean to me? A place where people are more than happy to help no matter what your level is when it comes to modelling problems. A place where people can talk about problems in life without being judged. A place of friendship. Its someware to look forward to droping into each day , a club but without any hassle. Long may it continue, thank you to Andy and all who make it so. I would like to second the words of mikes rail if I may and all other posts as well. Thank you Andy and RMWEB. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
RMweb Premium Mike Bellamy Posted November 24, 2011 RMweb Premium Share Posted November 24, 2011 Very difficult to find something to add that hasn't been said already. What really brought it home to me in 2007 (at least that's when I think it was!) was when I offered our local Community Centre for the first Members' Day and we were overwhelmed by the support with visitors coming from all over the country to meet this guy called Andy. At that time we had a few hundred members and we have added over 13000 since then. We've seen good times (mostly) and few bad times when the server crashed or the database got corrupted but all the time Andy was battling away in the background to get things up and running again (just don't mention Poopex who must have been the worst service provider ever!) Met some great friends and got a couple to join our local club - and through RMweb I have made contact again with Allegheny and Western Sunset as both John and Peter were local members many years ago until they both moved away - it's made the world a much smaller place. Mike Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Recommended Posts
Archived
This topic is now archived and is closed to further replies.