Part 3 - Getting Started

System

In general, communities are places where people feel a sense of belonging and ownership. Starting one requires that you create a "place" for this to happen, and that you actively encourage community development.

The first task is choosing a comfortable, user-friendly discussion software. I always check out the "community area" of every site I visit (where it's an option), and I can't tell you how many times I've been immediately put off by some daunting, unreadable interface. I am also deterred (as are most webizens) by BBS's that require me to log in with a user name and password, even if it's not my real name.

There are plenty of sites that use this option, and some of them are even successful despite it (like Salon Magazine, for example). Sometimes, readers are free to "lurk" (read only), but need to log in to participate. If you're concerned with maintaining some control, this option can work, but I recommend a fully open forum for most instances. It offers a welcoming invitation to visitors to participate, which encourages the growth of community.

You should also choose a BBS system that generates individual URL's for each posting. I'll explain why in a bit.

Policy

Once you have decided on your system, it's a very good idea to make policy decisions about your community. In general, these are not policies you will enforce (a functioning community polices itself), but you can establish some guidelines for your users to follow.

A great example is whether you'll allow anonymous postings or require users to post email addresses. This issue has been fervently debated. Those in favor of the name argue that it increases user responsibility and accountablity. Invariably, if a person using an anonymous name makes some strong comment, one of these pro-namers will respond labeling their anonymity as cowardice. As someone trying to foster community, however, I'm against any such restrictions. I know there are legitimate posters who just don't want their opinions to "come back" into their offline life, and I still want to encourage these people to participate. There's no real anonymity anyway. If someone using a fake name commits slander, the offended party can legally force the host and ISP to reveal their identity from server logs.

Speaking of libel, you'll also need to determine legal policy regarding your BBS: Will you censor any messages, or use some sort of automated filter? What will you do in the event of a libel accusation? These frightening questions aren't meant to deter you, but you do need to be aware of the legal implications of your decisions. For a starting point to get you thinking about the issues, take a look at Radiation's article, "Bulletin Boards and Liability." It won't take the place of personalized legal advice, but it will show you the dangers and the ways to minimize them.