Here are a few measures that could be taken to better control the Off-Topic Discussion Forum (OTF) in the future. We are always looking for ways to make the forum better, so here is your chance to vote on some of the possible options.
OPTION 1: We could move the OTF from the FORUMS page into the Groups section (like Darksiders and States). This construct would force someone to have to JOIN before they could post to the OTF. With this mechanism, we have the ability to remove (ban) someone from the OTF without banning them from the entire forum. It adds an additional layer of membership.
OPTION 2: We could also turn OFF the OTF to new members who have not yet posted 25 times to the other forums. Basically, once someone becomes an "Active Member", they would then be able to access the OTF. What this would propose to do is make sure that someone does not just join TheGLForum to participate in the OTF exclusively.
OPTION 3: We could charge a subscription fee (lets say $20 a year, as an example) to be a member of the OTF. This would mean every member of the OTF would have a little "skin in the game" (I hate that phrase). All of the rules would apply, so if someone steps out of line, they would not only lose their membership in the OTF, but lose their membership fee as well. If their OTF membership is revoked, their only recourse would be to subscribe again and pay another $20 to get back in. So, it is sort of like a penalty or fine for bad behavior. However, we could implement a po3 strikes and you are out.
OPTION 4: We sort of have this now through the Flag system. If enough complaints against a member's posts are lodged, then warnings are issued and other actions taken. However, it is not formally defined. We could implement a firm policy that if a member gets flagged 3 times, they get a 7-day ban. We are not a big fan of "banning" just because of the negative connotations many members here have from other forums. However, if we move the OTF to a more "private" area, then an abusive member could be voted off the OTF only, and still remain part of the overall forum.
You can vote for the measures you would support below. Vote for as many as you are in favor of.
OPTION 1: We could move the OTF from the FORUMS page into the Groups section (like Darksiders and States). This construct would force someone to have to JOIN before they could post to the OTF. With this mechanism, we have the ability to remove (ban) someone from the OTF without banning them from the entire forum. It adds an additional layer of membership.
OPTION 2: We could also turn OFF the OTF to new members who have not yet posted 25 times to the other forums. Basically, once someone becomes an "Active Member", they would then be able to access the OTF. What this would propose to do is make sure that someone does not just join TheGLForum to participate in the OTF exclusively.
OPTION 3: We could charge a subscription fee (lets say $20 a year, as an example) to be a member of the OTF. This would mean every member of the OTF would have a little "skin in the game" (I hate that phrase). All of the rules would apply, so if someone steps out of line, they would not only lose their membership in the OTF, but lose their membership fee as well. If their OTF membership is revoked, their only recourse would be to subscribe again and pay another $20 to get back in. So, it is sort of like a penalty or fine for bad behavior. However, we could implement a po3 strikes and you are out.
OPTION 4: We sort of have this now through the Flag system. If enough complaints against a member's posts are lodged, then warnings are issued and other actions taken. However, it is not formally defined. We could implement a firm policy that if a member gets flagged 3 times, they get a 7-day ban. We are not a big fan of "banning" just because of the negative connotations many members here have from other forums. However, if we move the OTF to a more "private" area, then an abusive member could be voted off the OTF only, and still remain part of the overall forum.
You can vote for the measures you would support below. Vote for as many as you are in favor of.
Comment: (For off-topic replies)