Re: several items concerning the archives.

--- In CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO@y..., glee@i... wrote:

>
> There is a web forum software that I like. It is presently in use

across

> the net. It is called vbulletin...

vBulletin seems to be a popular BBS/Forum software, i've been on
several forums for other interests that use it. 1911forum.com is one.

If your not familiar with forum based sites, a forum has advantages.

Seperate catagories for your interests.

Each catagory has threads for particular questions, discussions, ect.
started by the members.

A Chat catagory is usually included keeping off topic discussions
keyholed, from cluttering up threads.

For a CNC Forum a General Machining catagory could be included.
CAD, CAM, EDM and DRO can have their own sections with subcatagories.

Some sites include a FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) catagory or
section where info is posted by the moderators only but can be read
by all.

Moderators are made from the members, usually people with advanced
knowledge who post a lot helping others. They keep the flow of the
forum inline, moving, editing or deleating posts, As Needed. This
takes a lot of work off of the Administrator and Owner(s) (or List
Mom, hint, hint). Moderators usually have a private catagory to
discuss the operation of the site, who would make a good moderator
when/if one is needed, ect.

And theirs the Administrator, the person who maintains the operation
of the software side of the site, adding, rearanging and deleating
catagories as needed, adding features, ect. The Admin and Owner(s)
also moderate the moderators, and of course have final say in
anything.

There is a search engine that searches the posts of the site, private
mail, members ratings (per post), Titles for the members like New
Member (under X posts) ect., or Moderator, Administrator, and these
can be edited to suit particular members like Mariss' could be Gecko
Drive, ect.

Ads can be sold, banners at the top and bottom of each page, to help
pay for the sites expenses. But they don't interfere with the flow of
the site unlike the intrusive ads on Yahoo. With the inclusion of a
catagory like general machining banner space might be sold to
companies like Enco...

Forums usually don't have massive archives. The members supplying
their knowledge and helping each other is usually enough.

This is only a brief overview of a forum. Of course I'm new to this
list and a wannabe at CNC, but I am supprised that I haven't found
any CNC Forums so far.

mike