What makes a successful thread?
Posted: Wed May 30, 2001 7:02 am
The following lists some of the signs I believe constitutes an original, thought-provoking thread. Please add (or remove) to it, as I am positive none of us appreciate seeing zero responses to our posts.
1. The thread abides by the rules set forth by the moderators (BTW, has anyone actually read what they are?)
2. The thread generates responses from many people with different points of view (ie. both Weasel and fable reply to it), inspires a heated but civil discussion, and avoids becoming clique-ish. The emphasis should be on quality, not quantity.
3. It appeals to both veterans and newbies.
4. The thread stays on topic. Discussion does not deteriorate into meaningless spamming until AFTER the original subject has been thoroughly explored.
5. Speaking of which - spamming is kept to a minimum, or is altogether absent (yeah, right).
6. The thread spawns a similar and/or totally opposing thread. The more the merrier.
7. The thread is rich with creativity and humor. (ie. Dwarven Throwers)
8 Longevity – no need to “bump” it back to the top, as the thread has a life of its own. But even successful threads don’t last more than a week.
9 Some responses contain paragraphs, essays, or dissertations betokening serious thought, effort, and enthusiasm for the topic. (ie. Theological Quandries)
10. The thread invites one or more of the moderators to post a reply himself. He may even wish to have been the one to come up with the thread in the first place!
[ 05-30-2001: Message edited by: EMINEM ]
1. The thread abides by the rules set forth by the moderators (BTW, has anyone actually read what they are?)
2. The thread generates responses from many people with different points of view (ie. both Weasel and fable reply to it), inspires a heated but civil discussion, and avoids becoming clique-ish. The emphasis should be on quality, not quantity.
3. It appeals to both veterans and newbies.
4. The thread stays on topic. Discussion does not deteriorate into meaningless spamming until AFTER the original subject has been thoroughly explored.
5. Speaking of which - spamming is kept to a minimum, or is altogether absent (yeah, right).
6. The thread spawns a similar and/or totally opposing thread. The more the merrier.
7. The thread is rich with creativity and humor. (ie. Dwarven Throwers)
8 Longevity – no need to “bump” it back to the top, as the thread has a life of its own. But even successful threads don’t last more than a week.
9 Some responses contain paragraphs, essays, or dissertations betokening serious thought, effort, and enthusiasm for the topic. (ie. Theological Quandries)
10. The thread invites one or more of the moderators to post a reply himself. He may even wish to have been the one to come up with the thread in the first place!
[ 05-30-2001: Message edited by: EMINEM ]