Building Web Communities With Free Forums

[Webm]

Looking for a place online to meet new people, discuss hobbies, plan events, or simply chatting fun? Internet forums have been around for some time on the web and are often free and easy to configure. Forums are basically online discussion web sites where people share information and chat together around a set of issues. An example might be a local photo club. You can configure the issues around the types of cameras, locations for shooting events, and local meetings, printing tips, etc. Often there are administrators and moderators to help keep the discussion orderly and on topic.

Some points to consider when starting an online forum are ...

Cost - Often you can find for free. There are probably some advertising on the site, but most sites today?

Features - Does the forum support avatars, private messaging, user levels, themes, etc.

Security - Is it possible to create forums that only registered users can post in? Helps prevent spammers.

I can not emphasize enough the last. You should be able to completely control who is in their forums. One bad apple spoils the bunch. On that same note, it is common for a forum moderator. These are people that help enforce the rules in the forum. Make sure you choose wisely your help. When it comes to managers, not only should never be one. Administrators have the keys to the city and can set fire forum.

Finally, to make a forum a success you need to attract people to join. Obviously, if a church or other established group, this is relatively easy. Tell your friends, family, members of the club. If you are starting from scratch, same thing. Telling people, people show, inviting people. Check if your site is listed in the Forum in the search engines like Google. Once you get past the initial setup and recruitment of its soon be on your way to having a forum that you and your friends can enjoy.

[Webm]