An Open Question To Mods & Forumers About Trolling

[TheRedWizard]

Just a quick one, as I didn't want to start an entire thread on it.

 

How many admin, co-admin, mods and vol. mods are there at the mo?

 

I know there's a list somewhere but it seems to be out of date.... or does it just seem like there are more mods about than before (maybe a false impression based on a couple of examples of overmoderation - which this isn't the place for a debate about!!!!!)

 

Red (Not trolling, promise - just wondered!)

[JoeP]

Hi,

 

Thanks for reminding me - the list was a bit out of date so I've fixed it!

 

http://www.sheffieldforum.co.uk/faq.php?faq=vb_faq#faq_sf_mod_list

 

A few more than we used to have, but we now tend to have more holidays than we used to have.

 

As for overmoderating - going by some 'rules of thumb' adopted by some social forums, we should have about twice as many Mods as we do to ensure 'coverage'. Also, we usually find that perceptions of over-moderating tend to be based upon whether you've had recent dealings with teh Mods or not.

 

So...back to the topic in hand. What's the best approach to dealing with troublesome posters on 'fan' or 'pecial interest' threads?

[shoeshine]

Mr Shoeshine, thank you for your input. You wear your Joint Leader of the Writing Group mantle with obvious pride.

 

Your whole post seems to consist of a verbose defence of the group, but I'm confused as to where you think an attack came from.

 

You stress that the group is one where genuine, constructive criticism is welcomed, but I can't see any element of "I can't stand writing, all writers need to get a life, I've never met a writer who doesn't look like the back end of a bus" that could be considered to fall into that category.

 

So where exactly does the "absurd argument" lie?

 

It's not pride which triggered my response to your post Ant. A defensive reaction on my part? Probably!

 

I think any GL would be prepared to defend the folks who contribute positively to their Group, and would react in the same way if it was held to either real or perceived ridicule.

 

I admit to being verbose at times, but at midnight verbosity within posts are not unusual.

 

By the way, I advertise the Writing Group whenever or wherever possible. I regret that you feel it's not for you. I find it hard to understand how you arrived at that decision when your access is limited to only one part of it.

 

If you have any suggestions on how to shape the Group to make it more attractive to you and others, please send me a PM.

[cgksheff]

A recent example was a 'graffiti' thread that was started with a post that said that the thread was for graffiti 'fans' only.

 

I have also seen threads where the original poster has got upset because someone has posted some opinions contrary to their own (well reasoned, not abusive nor 'trolling').

The reaction was something to the effect of 'how dare you disturb "my thread"?'

 

The idea that threads can be "owned" is a death knell to a thriving forum.

It is usually the lively debate that attracts many to read these pages.

 

If someone wants to read about all things lovely about "Corrie" they would usually go to a "Corrie" website.

I believe that readers/posters are attracted hear to see the variety of opinion that may be out there.

 

I believe that there are sufficient rules to allow for moderation of abuse and trolls and that using these, adequately and fairly, is the best way to continue.

[JoeP]

I believe that there are sufficient rules to allow for moderation of abuse and trolls and that using these, adequately and fairly, is the best way to continue.

 

Which is exactly what we currently do.

[Grandad.Malky]

I have also seen threads where the original poster has got upset because someone has posted some opinions contrary to their own (well reasoned, not abusive nor 'trolling').

The reaction was something to the effect of 'how dare you disturb "my thread"?'

 

The idea that threads can be "owned" is a death knell to a thriving forum.

It is usually the lively debate that attracts many to read these pages.

 

.

 

Well said.

 

[Guest Ant]

Probably best to close here, it's reached full circle. Thanks for the input - just knocking an idea about.

[Ginger_Kitty]

Thread closed at OPs suggestion