Re: [tlug] Understanding TLUG

[Dave M G <dave@example.com>]

Josh,
> http://shirky.com/writings/group_enemy.html
>   

That is a fascinating read, thank you for linking to it.

I'm actually moderating some online groups, and also working on a CMS 
system that will allow for forum and mailing list creation, so a lot of 
what was written there was a good opportunity to think through some 
ideas I've been having.

This phrase jumped out at me:

"Second, you have to design a way for there to be members in good 
standing. Have to design some way in which good works get recognized. 
The minimal way is, posts appear with identity. You can do more 
sophisticated things like having formal karma or "member since."

It makes me think of the forum for VMWare:
http://www.vmware.com/community/index.jspa

They have a system where you can mark a posting of yours as a question. 
Then, as people reply, you can mark responses as either "helpful" or 
having answered your question. Marking posts this way earns points for 
people who posted helpful responses.

What's fascinating about it is that, last time I checked, the points 
don't earn anything, there are no prizes. People just gain status as 
being helpful or not. And it is one of the most polite and technically 
helpful lists I've ever been on. It seems that being perceived as the 
most helpful is motivation enough for people to avoid a lot of flaming 
and off topic postings.

I don't think TLUG needs anything of that nature. I'm just mentioning it 
because I'm on a coffee break and I'm totally fascinated by topics of 
groups and online communities.

--
Dave M G
http://www.tlug.jp/wiki/User:Dave_M_G