Should Guest Posting be allowed?

[Nomad]

I think that in order to post in the forum you should have to register. But still be able to read them without being reg. Just an idea.

[Jeff]

Currently anyone can post or start a thread as a guest.

Registering and posting as a logged-in user allows you to:
1.) edit your posts if you make a mistake
2.) receive email notification to replies
3.) see and use the quick reply box
4.) vote in polls

The original idea behind allowing guests to post was that it allows a visitor to post a quick question while they otherwise might be scared away by having to register. And once the discussion gets going, they will find the forums of value and will register.

However, I've received two suggestions now that registering should be required to post, so I think the time may have come to throw the switch the other way.

Any strong opinions one way or the other?

[Nomad]

Have you checked out that site Thehulltruth.com Jeff?? Might give you some ideas thats where I came up with the no guest posting. But they have it for a different reason.

[Jeff]

Yes I have - it's a nice site. Actually vBulletin by default (and most forum software) does not allow guest posting - it's just a box you click one way or the other in the cp. We haven't had any specific problems (e.g. spamming) by guests, but it would be nice to get to know the people who are posting. Maybe I got it wrong in the first place to allow guests to post and it's time to switch it now.

[Portager]

I don't see a problem with guests posting as long as it isn't being abused. Is it being abused? I tend to hope for the best in people and then react if they don't meet expectations. If guests start abusing the privilege then shut it off.

Cheers;
Mike Schooley

[duluthboats]

Letting guest post is OK with me. It helps me when I’m answering a question to have a name and a location for the person who asked. Communicating with a keyboard is not easy for me. I have to get on a conversational level, if that makes any sense. That’s a tough thing to do without a name. But I wouldn’t want to discourage anyone from posting. Once they are comfortable here I think they will register. I’m proof that any one is welcome.
Gary

[Willallison]

Ditto - I think anything that encourages people to take part is a good thing. From my own experience, I think I initially posted as a guest. When I found how great the site was, I decided to register.

[Nomad]

Guess it's setteled for now then.

[lockhughes]

I voted for folks to sign-up... introduce.

Demographics might be useful to the site operator for promoting the site... attracting other members (and commercial members <gasp>... like in ad revenues :-( <dble.gasp>,) etc., to help maintain the site, with the finances, I mean? Good for the users (and a certain satisfaction for the instigator).
L

ps... I use the term "commercial member" `cause it's warmer and fuzzier than "commercial sponsor".

[Nomad]

Lock did you vote for the right one cuz' the is one or for the other one. Or someone else voted one of the two.

[lockhughes]

Originally posted by Nomad
Lock did you vote for the right one cuz' the is one or for the other one. Or someone else voted one of the two.

Pretty sure I voted to register before allowing a post... Betcha the system logs could confirm/correct me!
L

[Ted1785]

I think guests should be allowed to post whatever they want whereever they want. I havent been a member long but the time I've been here I've been looking for info for my boat and the best info I've been getting from guests.

I doubt I'd have stuck round and become a regular if i hadn't been able to make that first post as a guest.

While this is a great site, it is quite intimidating to the first time visitor...and I think the guest category may be it's saving grace as far as people dipping their toe in the water!

If it aint broke don't fix it!


Cheers!

[Ted1785]

I agree with trouty about the first time posting. The majority of the better posting for info. came from people outside. We should encourage people to join yes, but we shouldnt discourage them from giving their 2 cents on a descussion if they know something we all dont.

[Polarity]

Not to mention that for one reason or another members may want to post as Guests...