Kiwi Posted November 7, 2008 Share Posted November 7, 2008 Ped and I have been blatting back and forth ideas for how to develop the forum for quite a while now. The dilemna for us is that whatever we do, we would like the site to continue to grow. However, with the number of forums and the amount of opportunity there is for making the site more useful and easier, the off-the-shelf forum software becomes a little limiting because its not designed to be tailored much. It's designed for ease of management. It's possible we could potentially look at developing bespoke forum software if there was a way to tailor the site more specifically for the way in which its used by the members. However, obviously before any of this stuff is considered feasible, we need to test our assumptions about what would be valued by members and whether its worth doing it anyway. I know some of you will think 'whats wrong with the forum the way it is now'. Fair enough, thats why I've put a poll together. The core areas of interest that Ped and I see the site having for everyone are (in no particular order) 1) Socialising 2) Information 3) Promotion (Have I missed anything out?) There are some parts of the forum, such as the Off Topic that appears to fill the social networking side of things. Its possible, for example, that we could look at enhancing the site so that it had some features similar to Facebook/Myspace. Perhaps each member could be offered a more sophisticated profile page with enhanced features eg. media streaming, status updates from friends, photo album, band pages etc. There are some parts of the forum such as the Affiliates forum that caters for the promotional side of things, which we could potentially turn into more of a shop front. Similar to some of the online retailers such as Thomann. This would be contained under a completely separate section but it would be relatively easy to track orders etc. It would offer any members with commercial interests, but not enough expertise or time to set up their own web-based shop front, a way of getting a web presence for their products. In terms of information, the wiki is consistently underutilised by members but still provides a potentially valuable repository of collected wisdom. It would be nice to integrate that more successfully within the forum. OK. The reality is that, if this were to go ahead, unless we have a member within the community who would be prepared to help us develop the site for low upfront cost, then obviously someone is going to want to be paid for their time in programming new forum software. So the $64.000 questions are would you all, as members, be prepared to pay a yearly subscription for enhanced usefulness? If you didn't want to pay for it but still wanted the features, would you be prepared to tolerate additional advertising? There is the potential for us to approach a company I know of who would offer to cover the development costs in exchange for a share of the promotional revenue (I guess its a bit like a record company deal). NB: Just to make it clear - THERE ARE NO DEFINITE PLANS TO CHANGE THE FORUM. We just want to put out a feeler to see what people think about the potential on offer. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Kiwi Posted November 7, 2008 Author Share Posted November 7, 2008 Just so everyone is aware, the problems with the poll before were because the poll didn't let you answer only one question and then vote. Everyone has to answer all three questions before posting their vote. Sorry for the inconvenience, but I didn't realise this so I've added null categories to the last two questions as well. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
neepheid Posted November 7, 2008 Share Posted November 7, 2008 You see from time to time (including in previous incarnations of this very thread) how people would like to see the wiki expanded/made more useful. The wiki only works if people contribute to it. Therein lies a problem - I have anecdotal evidence of people having problems with submitting stuff to the wiki (or simply not knowing how to do it). How about nominating someone officially to look after the wiki, either an existing mod or someone new? People with stuff to submit but aren't sure how to do it (it's not the most intuitive thing in the world if you're not used to tag based markup) could supply the text/pics to this person and they could wiki-ify it for them. Would have added benefit of someone patrolling from time to time keeping the wiki neat and tidy, conforming to a consistent style etc. Just an idea Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
waynepunkdude Posted November 7, 2008 Share Posted November 7, 2008 I personally wouldn't change much but another forum I use a lot (majorgeeks.com) has a live chat room at the top for member to "chat" but not about computers (in this case basses) I think it lets people get to know eachother better without taking away the use of the boards. Just an idea. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Kev Posted November 7, 2008 Share Posted November 7, 2008 i dont think anything needs to be changed, its great the way it is, simple and effective Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
The_D Posted November 7, 2008 Share Posted November 7, 2008 I agree with Kev I dont think this site needs much changing. Of course there are a few options the forum could use but to implement them its gonna cost money at some stage which then takes away the free aspect of Basschat which I love (typical Scot). Keep on keepin on CK Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
neepheid Posted November 7, 2008 Share Posted November 7, 2008 Oh, and another small idea I think I mentioned a while back but never happened - a seperate forum in the For Sale section for bass/guitar/amp spare parts. I think there's enough trade in these things to warrant the unique place. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
warwickhunt Posted November 7, 2008 Share Posted November 7, 2008 I've not noticed any major failings and from my (limited) viewpoint I don't see change for the sake of change being necessary! If it ain't broke... Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
The Burpster Posted November 7, 2008 Share Posted November 7, 2008 I'd be happy to pay now for the pleasure...... It might benefit from more commercial input but then would you need a commercial manager....? getting a stand next to a bass supplier at one of the BIG geetar shows would spread teh word quick.... Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
MythSte Posted November 7, 2008 Share Posted November 7, 2008 +1 for the If it aint broke thing! The only thing this place could do with is a business title to become the sort of crack converters... but for basses! Although, It would need someone whos got a LOT of money, a LOT of time, a LOT of know how, and a LOT going wrong in their noggin... Doctorofthebass? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
paul h Posted November 7, 2008 Share Posted November 7, 2008 You know, as much as I love it here I think a paid subscription would kill it for me. Yes, I am [i]that[/i] tight. I think the forum as is suits my needs pretty darn well. I get to learn about stuff, look at pictures of stuff, and use the off topic section like a personal therapy session. Cool. However, I can see the potential of the BassChat brand. I would be happy to see some expansion somewhere, especially if it makes our hard working mods a bit of cash! I would suggest though that any efforts in a more commercial direction be added as an addendum to the forum. Paul. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Dubs Posted November 7, 2008 Share Posted November 7, 2008 I definitely agree with all those who have said that it’s great the way it is. If money to keep the site open was tight, or if money was needed for bespoke software development, then a possible stream of revenue might be to sell Basschat attire? Just simple stuff like T Shirts and Hoodies etc… I’d buy one anyway, and I’d prefer to support the site by buying something like that than having to put up with sh*t loads of ads like TalkBass. I think developing the affiliates forum into more of a shop front could work and potentially be great, but only in a separate section to the affiliates forum as it is now. One thing that I would like say is that I hate all the myface and spaceface sh*t, so I’d definitely prefer not have any “social networking” of that kind. I only use Facebook because I feel socially bullied into keeping my finger on the pulse…but I think the idea of a “live chat room” that Wayne mentioned might be interesting, but possibly difficult to moderate. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Kiwi Posted November 7, 2008 Author Share Posted November 7, 2008 Its all really interesting stuff guys! Thanks for the inputs so far. I hope it keeps coming. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
wateroftyne Posted November 7, 2008 Share Posted November 7, 2008 I asked my cat, and he said: Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
waynepunkdude Posted November 7, 2008 Share Posted November 7, 2008 I think a ban on cat pics should be implemented, punishable by death. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
wateroftyne Posted November 7, 2008 Share Posted November 7, 2008 I think a ban on people who think there should be a ban on cat pics should be implemented, punishable by Sandy Toksvig in a leotard. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Kiwi Posted November 7, 2008 Author Share Posted November 7, 2008 [quote name='wateroftyne' post='324538' date='Nov 7 2008, 09:55 PM']I think a ban on people who think there should be a ban on cat pics should be implemented, punishable by Sandy Toksvig in a leotard.[/quote] Mike, you say that like Sandy Toksvig is a bad thing. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
deaver Posted November 7, 2008 Share Posted November 7, 2008 I love you just the way you are. Was at a wedding featuring two old mates earlier today so i am little tired and emotional. A Bass Chat book might be an idea, along the lines of the Bass Player book maybe Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Kiwi Posted November 7, 2008 Author Share Posted November 7, 2008 [quote name='deaver' post='324546' date='Nov 7 2008, 10:07 PM']I love you just the way you are. Was at a wedding featuring two old mates earlier today so i am little tired and emotional. A Bass Chat book might be an idea, along the lines of the Bass Player book maybe[/quote] lol, awwww you ol' softie! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
deaver Posted November 7, 2008 Share Posted November 7, 2008 I'll be all sober and tough tomorrow though. And I'll deny everything Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
MoJoKe Posted November 7, 2008 Share Posted November 7, 2008 [quote name='BassManKev' post='324298' date='Nov 7 2008, 04:20 PM']i dont think anything needs to be changed, its great the way it is, simple and effective[/quote] +1 to that, definitely! simple, loads of great members and chat. Thanks guys! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
silverfoxnik Posted November 7, 2008 Share Posted November 7, 2008 [quote name='wateroftyne' post='324538' date='Nov 7 2008, 09:55 PM']I think a ban on people who think there should be a ban on cat pics should be implemented, punishable by Sandy Toksvig in a leotard.[/quote] That is f***ing funny! Back on topic... I think Basschat is a fantastic place but just because it's good now, doesn't mean it couldn't be improved in a few ways. Personally, I am not a fan of MySpace/facebook type stuff and the socialising features here work more than well enough for me.. But something along the shopfront line could work really well. IMO, opportunities to develop the Basschat brand would make a lot of sense, especially if itwould bring in more advertising which would then in turn help the site grow without putting too high a cost on the members Having said that, I'm with Bob on the annual fees/subs issue; I use this place so much I'd happily pay an annual subscription for the privilege. Think about it - Basschat has over 4000 members.. If only 2000 of those paid £5 or £10 a year, that would give the Mods some very useful resources to develop Basschat for the future.. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
warwickhunt Posted November 7, 2008 Share Posted November 7, 2008 I seem to recall making a voluntary contribution some time ago... is that no longer available for those that wish to do so? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Prosebass Posted November 8, 2008 Share Posted November 8, 2008 (edited) Firstly I would like to cite an example of how good I think this forum .....I have had messages wishing me well for the op I had today and thats first class from a forum. I think the layout is easy to use and straightforward and has all the features I need. As someone who initially joined to promote my business and then ended up as a basschatter it has far exceeded my expectations. I have met a lot of funny, sincere, knowledgeable and honest guys and girls and tBBC, and worry if expansion and bling may spoil things ? A separate section with a professional shopfront for business's may be an improvement rather than a "forum section" as such. Speaking for myself I would be happy to donate a percentage of sales generated from basschat for what is after all free advertising. Would a facebook myspace type front page not mean a massively enhanced bandwidth requirement ? I for one hate the speed at which myspace pages load and I have a solid 8 meg download speed. Plus most people who are into that sort of thing ( I use facebook) have already got that facility. I think the present simplicity of the site is one of its good points. For increased revenue may I suggest a charity type auction page within the site where we can donate any bass related items with the postage costs direct to the person donating and the remainder sent to basschat for running costs. a little trust is required but that is certainly not an issue on the forum and you (the moderators) never need to handle anything , just the initial set up. But not for the recycling stuff like beds and sofas just bass stuff.If you want my input and ideas how to run it I'd be happy to help. And one last thing....ban cat pictures....and dog pictures.....and people who.....whoops wrong thread Edited November 8, 2008 by Prosebass Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest Posted November 8, 2008 Share Posted November 8, 2008 [quote name='wateroftyne' post='324538' date='Nov 7 2008, 09:55 PM']I think a ban on people who think there should be a ban on cat pics should be implemented, punishable by Sandy Toksvig in a leotard.[/quote] Just got back from the pub after a last minute dash for pints and Bushmills chasers, i was feeling nice and mellow. Wots your a deviant! I now have a most disturbing image of ............... ...*****!..............................wide open! For what it's worth I like BC pretty much as it is, Do we really want to turn it into Talkbass? If the site were to go more commercial it would make the fight to save the remains of bassworld seem a hollow victory. That said if the running costs of the site are not being met by the banner ads perhaps a fee could be introduced for people who only visit the site to sell? I would like to see more of an editorial/news content and i realize this may not happen without commercialization so perhaps we could have subscription/one off payment content which incorporated content similar to Bass guitar magazine once a month. Actually why not approach the magazines about hosting an online version of their content? I would be more likely pay for access to that than pay a subs system,. On talk bass the 'contributing member' moniker just adds undue gravitas to people who have paid for subs for the sole reason of having their drivel taken with more than a pinch of salt. thay or..........opps the bushmills kicked in Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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