Blog- jim s-w's Blog - why do some forums work and some die off?

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Hi All

 

I recently applied to another forum and that application was rejected.? ? Not that the owner of the forum had the courtesy to tell me that directly, I only found out because fiends on there told me so!? ? The reason given because I am a 'known moderator'.? ? Did the owner bother to check first?? ? Of course not!

 

It has got me thinking though, why do some forums (fora) thrive and others die?? ? Take RMweb for example.? ? Andy opens his door to everyone, whatever their interest and ability.? ? Its up to them to keep his good grace and as long as they do they are welcome.? ? There is no doubting that RMweb is by far and away THE model railway forum for UK modellers.

 

There are the society forum, these are a different kettle of fish as some are open to view and others are closed.? ? Thats for the society to decide as they are members benefits but I favour the open to view types and they show what that society is about.? ? In order to be a member benefit they have to attract members in the first place.? ? If the society and members are confident in what they are doing why not show off a bit?? ? Naturally if said society isnt doing much it might be best to keep the doors closed and not worry the world!

 

The invite only ones are a bit of an odd one but they can be made to work very well.? ? One of the forums I am involved with has a lovely, family atmosphere and its a pleasure to be involved.? ? But this is the exception to the rule I fear.? ? 

 

Why would anyone want to set up a forum in the first place?? ? To further something of course.? ? If thats modelling then great and our own Andy Y falls firmly into this camp. Very rarely will you see him telling us how great he is despite the fact that he is a very talented modeller himself (sorry for the? ? :icon_redface:? ? :icon_redface:? ? Andy)

 

Its when a forum is set up to further the owner than problems arise. I know I am not the only person to be refused access on some lame excuse and the other people I know of are the EXACT sort of people that should be members of the forum if its title has anything to say about it.? ? But thats not the point is it?? ? The point is ego massage, you are welcome as long as you show the sufficient level of praise but heaven forbid those modellers who are actually better and more knowledgeable than the owner.? ? Makes you wonder why anyone would want to join as acceptance is like a confirmation from the list owner that he/she thinks your work is not as good as theirs and their knowledge matters even less!

 

This isnt new of course, its like the cyber version of all of those nutcase churches you get over in the states.? ? 

 

Long live RMweb!

 

Jim

 

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