3. Definition Discussion board is also called a “web-board” or a “forum” Online discussion sites Messages are sorted within specific categories Messages are not shown in real-time Messages might need to be approved before becoming visible Users can be anonymous or have to registered in order to post messages Existing messages can be read without logging in Forums are written in various languages, driven by a database (PHP & ASP)
4. Forum’s organization Forum is Created with a specific topic which members will mainly discuss about Governed by a group known as moderators Forum’s structure Administrators (Admin) Super Moderators (Sup-Mod) Moderators (Mod) Users (Members and Guests)
5. FORUM Administrators Super Moderators Super Moderators Moderators Moderators Moderators Moderators Members Threads Threads Posts Posts Posts Posts Guests Anonymous Anonymous Guests (View-only) (View-only) (View-only) (View-only)
6. Forum’s behaviors Observe first, act second Fill out your profile, especially your signature Want to be there Do not mention your Web site
7. When and why using a forum? Share thoughts and advice Exchange ideas Ask questions and learn more about some specific topics Help and find help from other members Create interesting conversations Marketing and sales
9. Forum and Social Media Marketing Forum is an “old” marketing tool? Forum will never be eliminated by the modern social media channels Forums have marketing benefits Forums are in niches and niches mean relevant and related content, audiences, and engagement
