Big update to the forum software

[tcraft]

There is a big update in the works from the developer of the software I use to provide this forum. Its about a month or two out.

I am looking for ideas and suggestions on changes that I might make to the forum when the update is applied. For instance, I am thinking that it should be a requirement that you have to be registered and logged in to read anything in the forums. I have a few ideas in mind I will share later.

If you have some suggestions, please post them here.

thanks.

bob.

[Guest]

Re: Big update to the forum software

There is a big update in the works from the developer of the software I use to provide this forum. Its about a month or two out.

I am looking for ideas and suggestions on changes that I might make to the forum when the update is applied. For instance, I am thinking that it should be a requirement that you have to be registered and logged in to read anything in the forums. I have a few ideas in mind I will share later.

If you have some suggestions, please post them here.

thanks.

bob.

Bob,

Exactly what does registered mean?

A foundation member? Not a guest?

Dave

[flyguy]

Re: Big update to the forum software

Dave, As is, anyone can come on the forum and read the threads. To answer or start a thread one has to register as you and I and the other guys here are.
Assume the threads would not be open for anyone to read if that change was made. That would be a split from most shared-interest forums on the net.
Darryl

[Guest]

Re: Big update to the forum software

ok, got it, thanks Darryl.

I joined the Shortwing Piper Forum a while back and really never go back to it because I have to register or login in each time.

This forum logs me in automatically so I view it frequently. I am a Foundation member too.

I also am a paying member of the Aeronca club/forum but hardly ever go there because it makes me login manually.

This picture indicates that I must be lazy.

But I generally go where login is done for me.

Dave

[mulwyk]

Re: Big update to the forum software

Anyone should be able to read the forum anytime without being registered. After all, we want to encourage interest in Taylorcraft. Make it as easy as possible.

A much needed improvement to the software would be to make it easier to post pictures. Seems like everyone has problems with attaching images.

[Larry Lyons]

Re: Big update to the forum software

I have no problem with everyone reading the posts. Most do make you register to post, I have no opinion there. Have we had a problem with non-members posting? However I always have a problem navigating around. I think you need better ie; more intuitive titling. Such as going to the foundation home page, or trying to actually join and pay up. Provide a link right to the join area not a link to another web site, but right to the page you need. Maybe it is just me but I always have to experiment till I find what I want as there is no direct route to the files area, at least that I have found. Probably showing my ignorance here, but what the hay! Larry

[VictorBravo]

Re: Big update to the forum software

In keeping with the original charter of the Foundation, I believe that the unwashed and unregistered public should always be allowed to read the posts. That is far and away the normal and expected thing on the worldwide internet community.

Attaching images without as many steps or new pages opening is a good idea.

Perhaps clicking on someone's username or avatar should drop down a larger menu, with a link to their photo gallery, files they uploaded for sharing, or something like that.

Paypal link for foundation membership "click here to join the Taylorcraft foundation" (I'll be the first one to click that link since I'm overdue)

More protection against spammer infiltration

Although it may not be related to the original subject, I also think that there are too many clicks and page openings that one has to go through to get to any particular discussion topic. Unless I'm doing it wrong, there are several levels of heierarchy, sub-menus, etc. just to get to "what's new for sale" or "what's the latest on L-2's"

I again want to thank Bob Ollerton publicly for the time and effort he idonates to maintain this forum for all of our benefit.

[mohawktipi]

Re: Big update to the forum software

I joined the Forum (registered) after reading the posts for a couple of months. If I had not been able to read any posts, I would not have returned to the site nor would I have registered to post or joined the Taylorcraft Foundation. People like to have the opportunity to check things out before being requird to provide personal information.

[lfries]

Re: Big update to the forum software

I pretty much go along with the comments, register to post but open to the public. When I want to start a new thread I always have a hard time figuring it out. I would like to see an easier way to start a new thread.
Thanks for Your efforts.

[M Jones]

Re: Big update to the forum software

Bob,

The only problem I see right now is that I spend too much time here because I can't seem to quit reading all of the post!

Thanks for all of your efforts,

[Larry Lyons]

Re: Big update to the forum software

Bob,

The only problem I see right now is that I spend too much time here because I can't seem to quit reading all of the post!

Thanks for all of your efforts,

DITTO ON THAT!!!
Larry

[Ron Coleman]

Re: Big update to the forum software

Hi Bob
I wouldn't require registration, that is a turn off.
I would make it easier to start a new thread (more obvious).
Fix the glitch which tells me that I am not logged in when I try to post a reply and I have to log in again.
Figure out why when I click on quick reply at the bottom of the page it tells me to go to a quick reply some where else. Strange!
Use simpler language (step by step) to post images.
As it is this is one of the easiest to use the best set up forums that I have been on.
Very well done!
RonC
N96995

[Forrest Barber]

Re: Big update to the forum software

I too have been kicked off and had to re register, I had no problem, many have encouraged me to have this for members only!! I too agree that we need to allow any one to surf and learn. IF they want to join and support out efforts, GREAT!, if not oh well....... The FAA obviously feels the Type Club forumns are a way to get to the owners... HOWEVER , how come only about 6-700 belong ; with over 3000 ships out there!

I am learning a lot from this thread keep the comments coming. thanks Bob see u soon! I just got squared away here at the airport and have to go roll and MOW!!!

[tcraft]

Re: Big update to the forum software

Your login to the forum is "sticky" in that your credentials are stored in your web browser so that when or if you come back to the forum they can be used to "automagiclyl" log you back in. Note this is not registration, your account is ok, its login.

The cookie in your web browser can be missing or messed up and if thats the case then the forum software needs you to type in your name and password again and then the cookie is freshed up again. So thats why its important you remember this or write it down because now and then you will need to re-enter it.

What breaks the cookie? It can expire with age, another software package can step on it or your web browser can delete it when you are doing cleanup, deleting history (porn browsing again?) or installing an update to the web browser.

[Ron Coleman]

Re: Big update to the forum software

I don't have a big problem with the login to the forum. Usually if I get dropped it is because of something local. The problem I have is with a "reply to thread". Like right now at the top of the screen on the right side it says "Log Out". That means that I am logged in. When I finish typing thes post and click on "Submit Reply", s screen pops up and says that I am not logged in and I have to log in again. This screen does not recognize my cookie login and password.

RonC